Analysis
Kentucky State's chemistry program carries estimated debt of about $24,000—roughly half of what graduates might earn in their first year based on peer programs in the state. That 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment, though the $41,842 first-year estimate places this squarely in the middle of Kentucky's chemistry landscape, where outcomes vary significantly between schools.
What's worth noting is that chemistry bachelor's degrees in Kentucky show considerable range. Murray State graduates reportedly earn over $48,000 in their first year, while Eastern Kentucky grads start closer to $34,500. Kentucky State's estimated figures fall between these extremes and align almost exactly with national chemistry medians. For a school serving primarily first-generation and lower-income students (57% receive Pell grants), these middle-of-the-pack outcomes matter—especially when considering that chemistry degrees typically lead to lab work, quality control roles, or further education.
The financial picture appears workable if the estimates hold true, but recognize that these figures come from similar programs across Kentucky, not Kentucky State's actual graduates. Before committing, verify what specific career support and graduate school placement rates this program offers, since chemistry graduates often need additional credentials to maximize earning potential. The debt load is reasonable enough that the degree won't become a burden if your student follows through with career-relevant employment or advanced study.
Where Kentucky State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Chemistry bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,214 | $41,842* | — | $23,998* | — | |
| $9,708 | $48,334* | — | $25,000* | 0.52 | |
| $12,828 | $41,842* | — | $24,411* | 0.58 | |
| $10,130 | $34,512* | $57,563 | $23,584* | 0.68 | |
| National Median | — | $42,581* | — | $24,000* | 0.56 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with chemistry graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Chemists
Chemistry Teachers, Postsecondary
Environmental Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Kentucky State University, approximately 57% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.