Best Schools for Materials Sciences

Materials Sciences graduates earn a median of $57,180 within two years of graduation, ranking #34 out of 292 tracked majors — 61% above the median across all fields. There are 2 colleges nationwide with tracked earnings for this major.

Where you study matters: University of Arizona graduates earn $67,101 while Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $47,260 — a $19,841 difference. Factors like location, employer networks, co-op programs, and curriculum focus drive this gap.

2
Schools
$57,180
Avg. 2yr Earnings
#34
of 292 Majors
0
Graduates

Public vs Private: Materials Sciences

Public (1 schools)
$67,101
avg. 2yr earnings
Private (1 schools)
$47,260
avg. 2yr earnings

Public schools produce comparable or higher early earnings for Materials Sciences, often at lower tuition — making them strong value options for this major.

Top Materials Sciences Schools by Graduate Earnings

#1
U

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ · Public

$67,101
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 85.7%
#2
C

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · Private

$47,260
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 11.4%

Majors with Similar Earnings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Materials Sciences?
University of Arizona ranks #1 for Materials Sciences with median graduate earnings of $67,101 within two years. There are 2 schools nationwide offering this major with tracked earnings data.
How much do Materials Sciences graduates earn?
Materials Sciences graduates earn an average of $57,180 within two years of graduation. This is 61% above the median across all majors. Earnings range from $47,260 to $67,101 depending on the school.
How hard is it to get into a top Materials Sciences program?
The average acceptance rate across Materials Sciences programs is 48.5%. The most selective program is at Carnegie Mellon University with a 11.4% acceptance rate. Competitive programs value strong math/analytical skills and relevant coursework.
Is a public or private school better for Materials Sciences?
Private Materials Sciences programs average $47,260 in early earnings vs $67,101 at public schools. Public schools offer competitive earnings at typically lower cost, making them strong value options.

Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings are median 2 years after graduation for bachelor's degree holders.

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