Chemistry at Western Washington University

Western Washington's chemistry program shows impressive earnings outcomes, though parents should note these figures come from a small graduating class. At $48,527 in the first year and $73,774 by year four, graduates earn above the national median and match the earnings levels seen at UW-Seattle, Washington's flagship institution. Among Washington chemistry programs, this lands in the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack for the state but well above most programs nationally.

The 52% earnings growth over four years suggests chemistry graduates are moving into progressively better roles, likely in labs, pharmaceuticals, or related technical fields in the Seattle-Tacoma corridor. The $22,104 median debt is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46—meaning graduates could theoretically pay off loans in under six months of gross earnings. That's a comfortable position that leaves room for graduate school, career pivots, or simply building financial stability.

The small sample size means one or two exceptional graduates could skew these numbers higher, so treat them as encouraging but not guaranteed. Still, for an accessible public university with a 91% admission rate, WWU appears to deliver competitive chemistry outcomes at a reasonable price point. If your child is Washington-based and considering chemistry, this program merits serious consideration alongside the UW system schools.