Chemistry at Kent State University at Kent

Kent State's chemistry program starts slow but demonstrates something more important than first-year earnings: strong trajectory. While graduates earn $39,790 initially—about $3,600 below the Ohio median—earnings jump 50% by year four to nearly $60,000. That's a significant climb that puts graduates on solid financial footing once they complete entry-level positions or graduate studies.

The program sits near the 40th percentile among Ohio chemistry programs, which reflects that modest starting point. Cleveland State and University of Cincinnati graduates earn roughly $8,000 more in their first year out, suggesting those programs may offer stronger immediate job placement or industry connections. The $25,000 median debt is reasonable and typical for Ohio chemistry majors, translating to a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio even with those lower starting salaries.

For parents, the key question is whether your child plans to work immediately after graduation or pursue graduate school. Chemistry degrees often serve as stepping stones to advanced degrees, which would explain both the initial earnings dip and the strong rebound. If your child needs immediate earning power to service debt, stronger-performing Ohio programs exist. But if they're willing to navigate a couple lean years—whether in grad school or entry-level lab work—this program delivers solid mid-term results at a price point that won't create crushing debt.