Chemistry at University of Redlands

A bachelor's in chemistry from University of Redlands comes with an estimated debt load of nearly $25,000—substantially higher than the $16,326 median for California chemistry programs. That's concerning when peer programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $44,000, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57. While that ratio isn't catastrophic, it means graduates are carrying roughly 50% more debt than typical California chemistry majors for similar earning potential.

The earnings estimate itself tracks closely with the national median for chemistry degrees, but California's chemistry job market varies dramatically by institution. UC Berkeley chemistry graduates start at nearly $60,000, while even CSU campuses routinely produce first-year earnings above $47,000. Similar programs in California suggest Redlands graduates will likely land somewhere in the middle of the pack earnings-wise, but they'll be doing so with a debt burden that's 53% above the state median.

For families evaluating this program, the key question is whether Redlands' smaller class sizes and personalized attention justify the premium over public alternatives. The elevated debt paired with middle-tier earnings potential based on comparable programs means your child will likely need to manage loan payments of around $280 per month on an entry-level scientist's salary—manageable but tighter than at state schools where chemistry majors typically borrow less.