Median Earnings (1yr)
$52,216
95th percentile (60th in CT)
Median Debt
$26,158
9% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.50
Manageable
Sample Size
43
Adequate data

Analysis

UConn-Waterbury's chemistry program produces graduates earning $52,216 in their first year—substantially above the national median of $42,581 and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally. That's a meaningful advantage, putting graduates ahead of 95% of chemistry programs across the country. Within Connecticut, though, the program sits at the state median, as several UConn branches report identical earnings. The $26,158 debt load is modest, creating a manageable 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio that's well below concerning levels.

The trajectory looks solid: earnings grow 25% to $65,230 by year four, demonstrating that these chemistry degrees translate to career progression. Given UConn-Waterbury's high admission rate and the fact that half of students receive Pell grants, this represents an accessible pathway to above-average chemistry outcomes. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests some year-to-year variability, but the overall pattern is clear.

For families concerned about chemistry being a "risky" major, this program offers reassurance. Your child would graduate with below-average debt while earning more than most chemistry graduates nationally. The UConn name appears to carry real weight in the job market, even from a regional campus.

Where University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally

University of Connecticut-Waterbury CampusOther chemistry programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus graduates earn $52k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all chemistry bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut

Chemistry bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (19 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus$52,216$65,230$26,1580.50
University of Connecticut$52,216$65,230$26,1580.50
University of Connecticut-Avery Point$52,216$65,230$26,1580.50
University of Connecticut-Stamford$52,216$65,230$26,1580.50
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus$52,216$65,230$26,1580.50
Southern Connecticut State University$40,767—$28,5000.70
National Median$42,581—$24,0000.56

Other Chemistry Programs in Connecticut

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Connecticut schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Connecticut
Storrs
$20,366$52,216$26,158
University of Connecticut-Avery Point
Groton
$17,462$52,216$26,158
University of Connecticut-Stamford
Stamford
$17,472$52,216$26,158
University of Connecticut-Hartford Campus
Hartford
$17,452$52,216$26,158
Southern Connecticut State University
New Haven
$12,828$40,767$28,500

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 University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus, approximately 50% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 43 graduates with reported earnings and 63 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.