Chemistry at University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus

Pitt's chemistry program charges $27,000 in typical debt but delivers earnings growth that justifies the investment—graduates see their income jump 34% from $43,571 to $58,424 in just three years. That acceleration matters because it means the debt burden, while slightly above the national median, becomes more manageable quickly as earnings rise.

The program sits right at Pennsylvania's median for chemistry earnings, meaning it's a solid middle-of-the-pack option within the state. Higher earners exist (Millersville and Drexel graduates start near $50,000), but Pitt's trajectory suggests patience pays off here. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 is reasonable—graduates earn enough in their first year to make monthly payments workable, and by year four they're earning considerably more. At the 5th percentile nationally for debt, this program keeps borrowing relatively contained compared to chemistry degrees elsewhere.

For families comfortable with moderate debt and willing to look beyond the starting salary, this offers a workable path. The earnings growth pattern suggests Pitt chemistry graduates find better positions as they gain experience, making this a stronger bet than the first-year number alone would indicate. Just know you're paying flagship prices for middle-tier starting outcomes, with the upside coming later.