Analysis
Chemistry programs in Texas show considerable variation in outcomes, and Texas A&M-Corpus Christi sits squarely in the middle of the pack. Based on peer programs across the state, graduates here can expect first-year earnings around $41,800—essentially matching the Texas median for chemistry bachelor's degrees. The estimated debt load of roughly $21,000 is also typical for the state, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50. This means graduates would owe about half their first-year salary, which is reasonable for STEM fields.
However, context matters. Flagship programs like Texas A&M-College Station and UT Austin report first-year earnings that are $7,000 to $9,000 higher, suggesting that not all chemistry degrees produce equivalent market value. The university's 89% admission rate and moderate test scores indicate this is an accessible option for students who might not gain entry to more selective programs—but families should understand they're likely trading some earning potential for that accessibility.
For students committed to chemistry and comfortable with Corpus Christi's location, the financial picture appears workable. The debt burden won't be crushing, and the earnings align with state norms. But if a student has options at Texas A&M-College Station or similar schools, the data suggests those programs deliver better returns. Consider whether the career path truly requires a chemistry degree specifically, as some related fields might offer clearer job prospects.
Where Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Chemistry bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (63 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,748 | $41,799* | — | $20,791* | — | |
| $9,711 | $50,717* | $66,725 | $12,000* | 0.24 | |
| $13,099 | $49,462* | $66,584 | $19,500* | 0.39 | |
| $14,564 | $48,783* | — | $20,747* | 0.43 | |
| $9,228 | $43,940* | $51,532 | $28,775* | 0.65 | |
| $11,678 | $43,383* | $58,652 | $18,500* | 0.43 | |
| 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 Texas A & M University-Corpus Christi, approximately 40% 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 12 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.