Chemistry at Huston-Tillotson University

A chemistry degree borrowing $25,000 to earn roughly $42,000 in the first year creates a manageable debt ratio of 0.60—right in line with what similar bachelor's programs nationally produce. Based on comparable chemistry programs across Texas, these earnings estimates track closely with the state median, though they trail significantly behind what graduates from UT Austin, Texas A&M, and University of Houston typically command in their first year out.

The practical challenge lies less in the debt burden—which is reasonable for a bachelor's degree—and more in the earning trajectory. Chemistry graduates often need to pursue graduate work or specialized certifications to reach higher salary tiers, meaning that $42,000 first-year figure may represent a longer runway to financial stability than programs in fields like engineering or computer science. With 62% of students receiving Pell grants, Huston-Tillotson serves students who may have less financial cushion during that runway period.

For families deciding whether this investment makes sense, the question centers on post-graduation plans. If your student intends to work immediately after graduation, the debt load won't be crushing but the earnings won't be generous either. If graduate school is the goal, factor in additional borrowing and delayed earnings. The comparison programs suggest Austin's job market rewards chemistry degrees, but institutional prestige appears to matter—you're looking at a $6,000 to $8,000 annual gap compared to flagship universities that could compound significantly over a career.