Chemistry at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University's chemistry program starts graduates below the national median but shows impressive momentum, with earnings jumping 36% to reach $55,676 by year four. That growth trajectory outpaces what you'll typically see in chemistry programs and suggests the degree opens doors to better opportunities over time—whether through graduate school, specialized positions, or simply gaining traction in research or industry roles.

Within Arizona, this program punches above its weight, ranking in the 60th percentile despite the state having only five chemistry programs. You're essentially getting middle-of-the-pack performance compared to University of Arizona ($43,013) while paying less in debt ($21,500 versus the state median of $21,885). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 means your child would owe roughly half of their first year's salary—manageable given chemistry's technical skill set and the strong earnings growth pattern.

The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) adds some uncertainty, but the data suggests NAU chemistry graduates steadily improve their earnings position. If your child is considering graduate work in chemistry or adjacent fields, that first-year salary matters less than the trajectory. For families prioritizing Arizona in-state tuition with reasonable debt, this program delivers competitive preparation without the premium cost of flagship programs.