Chemistry at Saint Ambrose University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 suggests a manageable financial picture for this chemistry degree, though similar bachelor's programs nationally indicate first-year earnings around $42,500—modest compensation for a science credential. With an estimated $25,000 in debt, this falls in line with what peer institutions typically see, and the repayment burden appears reasonable given that chemistry graduates generally find employment in labs, quality control, or continue to graduate programs where earning potential increases significantly.

The challenge is that Iowa's chemistry market shows slightly stronger outcomes at flagship institutions like Iowa and Iowa State, where reported earnings hover above $43,800 in the first year. Saint Ambrose's estimated figures, drawn from national comparisons, suggest outcomes closer to the national median rather than exceeding it. For families evaluating a private university in Davenport versus larger state schools, this means weighing the value of smaller class sizes and personalized attention against potentially similar or lower financial returns in those crucial early career years.

The practical takeaway: chemistry degrees generally lead to stable employment, and the estimated debt load here won't be crushing. However, since these figures are derived from comparable programs rather than Saint Ambrose's actual graduate outcomes, families should directly ask the school about graduate school acceptance rates, industry placement, and starting positions their chemistry majors secure—especially if paying private tuition over in-state alternatives.