Analysis
Chemistry programs in Pennsylvania span a wide range—from schools where graduates earn around $43,000 to others exceeding $50,000 in the first year. Based on peer programs across the state, Seton Hill's chemistry graduates likely face an estimated debt load of $26,677, which translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61. That's competitive with both Pennsylvania and national benchmarks for chemistry degrees.
What this estimated picture suggests practically: a chemistry bachelor's with mid-$40,000 first-year earnings positions graduates for reasonable debt repayment, particularly when compared to national norms for the field. Chemistry majors often continue to graduate programs or enter specialized roles that develop over time, so initial earnings may not capture the full trajectory. Still, the estimated debt burden here—slightly below Pennsylvania's median for chemistry programs—wouldn't create immediate financial strain for most graduates.
The key limitation? We don't know how Seton Hill's specific outcomes differ from the state average. Some Pennsylvania chemistry programs produce considerably stronger first-year earnings (Millersville and Drexel graduates start near $50,000), while others cluster around this $43,000 estimate. Without actual placement data from Seton Hill, you're making a bet on typicality. If your child is committed to chemistry and values Seton Hill's environment, these peer-based estimates suggest reasonable financial prospects—but confirming where this program's graduates actually land professionally would strengthen that confidence.
Where Seton Hill University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Chemistry bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (73 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $41,414 | $43,571* | — | $26,677* | — | |
| $12,262 | $50,524* | $55,858 | $20,250* | 0.40 | |
| $60,663 | $49,215* | — | $29,667* | 0.60 | |
| $14,630 | $43,571* | $58,424 | $27,000* | 0.62 | |
| $14,646 | $43,571* | $58,424 | $27,000* | 0.62 | |
| $14,620 | $43,571* | $58,424 | $27,000* | 0.62 | |
| 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 Seton Hill University, approximately 30% 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 10 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.