Chemistry at The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga

With fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, these numbers deserve skepticism, but the pattern they suggest is worth examining. UTC's chemistry program produces earnings nearly identical to Tennessee's median ($41,588 vs. $41,588), placing it at the 60th percentile statewide—marginally ahead of UT-Knoxville but trailing Austin Peay. The $25,000 debt load sits above the state's typical $20,104, creating a slightly tighter financial picture than most Tennessee chemistry programs offer.

The 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming—graduates could theoretically pay off loans in well under two years of full earnings—but it's worth noting this trails the national median earnings by about $1,000 annually. For a relatively accessible program (77% admission rate), UTC delivers middle-of-the-pack results both statewide and nationally. Chemistry graduates typically see stronger earnings growth in years two through ten as they move into specialized roles or graduate programs, which could improve this program's value proposition over time.

If your child is committed to chemistry and wants to stay in Tennessee, UTC won't put them at a disadvantage compared to other state options. Just remember that small sample sizes mean one year's graduate cohort could look quite different from the next. The program performs competitively within Tennessee, but the slightly elevated debt relative to state norms means families should explore scholarship opportunities aggressively.