Chemistry at Kean University

New Jersey chemistry bachelor's programs typically produce first-year earnings around $45,000, and Kean's estimated figures align with this state median—though notably trail the $53,000-$55,000 ranges at Montclair State and Rowan. The estimated $23,425 in debt creates a manageable 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary. What's encouraging is the four-year earnings data showing $45,850, suggesting stable employment even if dramatic salary growth isn't the norm.

The caution here is that we're working entirely with estimates—both the earnings and debt figures come from peer programs rather than Kean's actual graduate outcomes. Chemistry is a field where lab quality, faculty research connections, and internship pipelines matter enormously for early career placement. The 46% Pell grant population suggests Kean serves many students who need their degree to deliver quick returns, and a chemistry bachelor's that lands graduates at state-average earnings accomplishes that baseline goal.

For a student considering graduate school in chemistry or related sciences, these numbers work as a launching pad. For someone expecting their bachelor's alone to command premium salaries, the comparison to higher-performing New Jersey programs matters. The debt load won't be crushing, but you'll want to verify what actual Kean chemistry graduates are achieving before assuming these state-average estimates apply to your child's specific outcome.