Analysis
UPitt-Johnstown chemistry graduates start near the state median at $43,571, but here's what matters: they see 34% earnings growth by year four, reaching $58,424. That's considerably stronger momentum than the typical chemistry program, where earnings often plateau more quickly. With debt at $27,000—the exact state median but well below the national figure—graduates face one of the lowest debt burdens among chemistry programs nationwide (5th percentile for debt). The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio means manageable payments from day one.
The program sits squarely in the middle of Pennsylvania's chemistry offerings. You'll notice several schools clustered at the same starting salary, but the four-year trajectory here deserves attention. Strong earnings growth suggests employers value what graduates gain on the job, even if the starting point isn't flashy. The 96% admission rate means access isn't a barrier for capable students interested in chemistry.
For families weighing a chemistry degree, this represents a financially sensible path: reasonable debt, solid starting earnings that match state norms, and meaningful income growth within four years. The moderate sample size suggests consistent program outcomes, not a one-time fluke. If your child is committed to chemistry and wants to avoid crushing debt while maintaining career momentum, this program delivers on the fundamentals that matter most—manageable costs and rising earnings.
Where University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all chemistry bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown | $43,571 | $58,424 | +34% |
| Temple University | $42,022 | $60,963 | +45% |
| University of Pittsburgh-Bradford | $43,571 | $58,424 | +34% |
| University of Pittsburgh-Greensburg | $43,571 | $58,424 | +34% |
| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | $43,571 | $58,424 | +34% |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,646 | $43,571 | $58,424 | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $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 | |
| $14,620 | $43,571 | $58,424 | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $21,524 | $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 University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown, approximately 29% 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 69 graduates with reported earnings and 96 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.