Chemistry at University of California-Davis

UC Davis chemistry graduates start slow but build momentum impressively. That $42,204 first-year salary sits below both the state median ($43,766) and national average ($42,581), placing this program in just the 40th percentile among California chemistry programs. However, by year four, earnings jump 57% to $66,311—a trajectory that suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into research positions, quality control roles, or graduate programs that enhance their earning power.

The $14,000 median debt is exceptional, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally and well below California's $16,326 median for chemistry programs. For context, UC Berkeley chemistry grads earn more initially ($59,576) but likely carry higher costs. The real question is whether that slower start matters for your family. If your student plans to pursue graduate work in chemistry—common for this field—the lower debt burden becomes a significant advantage. If they need immediate high earnings, schools like UC Merced or Cal State Long Beach deliver stronger year-one salaries.

The value case here depends on patience. Chemistry careers often require advanced degrees or time to build specialized skills, and UC Davis positions graduates for that path without crushing debt. A 0.33 debt-to-earnings ratio means just four months of gross income covers the full debt load—that's financial flexibility worth having in a field where the real earning power often comes later.