Chemistry at Hillsdale College

A chemistry degree from this highly selective liberal arts college comes with an estimated $24,994 in debt—right in line with what chemistry majors typically borrow both nationally and across Michigan. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 suggests manageable repayment, assuming first-year earnings track with the state median of around $40,000.

What's less certain is whether Hillsdale's outcomes match or exceed that state median. Peer chemistry programs in Michigan vary considerably: Grand Valley State graduates earn over $46,000 in their first year, while Wayne State graduates start around $36,000. Without reported data specific to Hillsdale's chemistry graduates, it's unclear where this program falls in that range. The college's 21% admission rate and 1433 average SAT score suggest a strong student body, but selectivity doesn't guarantee superior earnings outcomes in STEM fields where lab experience and research opportunities often matter as much as academic pedigree.

The practical question is whether you're comfortable with estimated benchmarks. If your child is certain about chemistry and drawn to Hillsdale's distinctive academic approach, the debt load isn't alarming. But if you're comparison shopping among Michigan programs, ask the college directly about placement rates and where recent chemistry graduates have landed—actual outcomes data would clarify whether this program delivers value competitive with state schools that report stronger earnings.