Chemistry at Mount Saint Mary's University

Chemistry programs in California show a stark divide: UC Berkeley graduates earn nearly $60,000 their first year, while similar programs across the state suggest more modest outcomes around $44,000. Based on comparable chemistry bachelor's programs statewide, Mount Saint Mary's students likely face this tighter financial picture—starting earnings near the state median but carrying estimated debt of about $25,000, roughly 50% higher than California's typical chemistry graduate.

That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 sits in workable territory, meaning graduates would dedicate just over half their first-year salary to their student loans. For context, peer programs nationally report similar debt loads, so this isn't unusually burdensome for a chemistry degree. However, the gap between Mount Saint Mary's projected outcomes and top California programs is substantial—roughly $15,000 less in starting earnings than Cal State Long Beach or UC Merced graduates report.

The practical question: does this path make sense for a student serious about chemistry? With 55% of students receiving Pell grants, Mount Saint Mary's serves many families for whom affordability matters acutely. If your child is drawn to the smaller campus environment and can manage that debt load, this could work—but they should know they're likely starting behind peers from larger state schools in both earnings and debt position. Chemistry careers often require graduate work anyway, where institutional prestige matters less for undergrad.