Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Physical Sciences

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

50

Schools Analyzed

$96,984

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$24,443

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in physical sciences, potential students often weigh their options based on future earnings. Graduates from top institutions in this field tend to see impressive salaries, averaging around $97,375 across the board. This list highlights schools where graduates command some of the highest earnings in the industry, reflecting both the quality of education and the demand for skilled professionals in physical sciences.

What sets these institutions apart are their graduation rates, student debt levels, and the overall return on investment. The top colleges not only boast high graduation rates, with an average of 88%, but they also offer a balance between manageable net prices and post-graduation debt. For instance, while some graduates leave with significant debt, others manage to keep it lower, impacting long-term financial stability.

Take Stanford University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology as examples. Stanford graduates earn an average of $124,080, with a relatively low debt of $12,000, while MIT leads with $143,372 in earnings but has a higher debt burden of $14,768. This contrast in financial outcomes underscores the importance of examining both earnings and debt as students make their decisions. Understanding these trade-offs will help prospective students find the best fit for their goals.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $96,984

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $24,443

Avg. median debt $17,847

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings with program concentration in Physical Sciences

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA

Earnings$138,687

Net Price$35,924

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 92% graduation rate, Stanford University cultivates an environment that supports student success and academic excellence. The campus, nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers unique opportunities for collaboration with tech giants and startups, attracting innovative minds from around the world.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology is synonymous with hands-on learning and groundbreaking research. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students are immersed in an environment that encourages problem-solving and innovation, preparing them for impactful careers in various fields.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

At Harvey Mudd College, students find a small, tight-knit community focused on science and engineering. With 93% of students graduating, this college fosters collaboration and mentorship, providing a rich educational experience that prepares graduates for high-demand careers.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

At Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, students can thrive in a rich academic environment with a focus on technology and the arts. The university serves over 7,300 students and has a graduation rate of 93%, which illustrates a supportive atmosphere where students can pursue their passions while preparing for successful careers.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking median earnings figure of $128,566 at ten years, California Institute of Technology is a powerhouse for students interested in science and engineering. Located in Pasadena, CA, this small school of just 987 students boasts an impressive 94% graduation rate, reflecting a tight-knit community dedicated to academic excellence and collaboration.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is known for its deep commitment to undergraduate education, featuring a remarkable 97% graduation rate. The campus is a hub for intellectual exploration, where students engage with faculty renowned for their research and teaching, fostering an enriching academic culture.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, is known for its prestigious programs and diverse student body of over 10,600. With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, students can feel confident in the support and resources available to ensure their academic success. The university's commitment to excellence is reflected in its strong focus on research and interdisciplinary learning.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, is synonymous with academic rigor and an unparalleled network. With a 97% graduation rate, its 7,601 students benefit from an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and leadership. The diversity of its programs, from the sciences to humanities, creates a vibrant community that fosters collaboration among bright, driven individuals.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Columbia University is a beacon of academic excellence in New York City. For students drawn to an urban environment, the vibrant culture and endless opportunities here can be as important as the education itself. The median earnings of graduates, at $102,491 within ten years, reflect the strong career paths many students take after leaving campus.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University is not just a prestigious name; it’s a community where creativity and intellect intersect. With a 96% graduation rate, students here have access to a wealth of resources and a collaborative atmosphere that nurtures their ambitions. Graduates can expect median earnings of $100,533 ten years post-graduation, underscoring the strong professional outcomes associated with a Yale education.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Yale's full profile

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is a hub for students passionate about technology and engineering, with an enrollment of 5,714. Though it has a lower graduation rate of 83%, the school attracts those dedicated to problem-solving and innovation. Graduates can look forward to median earnings of $102,051 ten years after graduation, a strong indicator of the institute’s focus on career readiness in technical fields.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College blends rigorous academics with a close-knit community in picturesque Hanover, New Hampshire. With a graduation rate of 96%, students enjoy a supportive environment that encourages exploration and collaboration. The median earnings for graduates reach $97,434 after ten years, showing that a Dartmouth degree can lead to solid financial returns.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Villanova University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. The robust community of 6,938 students creates an engaging environment where peers support one another, fostering both academic and personal growth.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and a culture that values inquiry and critical thinking. With a graduation rate of 95%, students are immersed in an environment that encourages debate and exploration, setting a strong foundation for their future careers.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University is known for its unique approach to education, encouraging students to take charge of their learning through a flexible curriculum. With a graduation rate of 96% and a focus on interdisciplinary studies, students here often find themselves deeply engaged in a variety of subjects, preparing them for diverse career paths.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Brown's full profile

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University offers an intimate learning experience with just 1,881 students, promoting close relationships between faculty and peers. The school maintains a graduation rate of 94%, indicating a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and socially.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking 95% graduation rate, Rice University in Houston attracts students who are serious about their education. The small student body of 4,776 allows for close-knit relationships with faculty and classmates, fostering a collaborative learning environment that many find inspiring.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Rice's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the picturesque town of Williamstown, Williams College attracts students seeking a rigorous academic experience with a personal touch. With only 2,076 students and a 95% graduation rate, it creates an intimate atmosphere where deep discussions and meaningful mentoring thrive.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University is recognized for its emphasis on research and innovation. With a graduation rate of 94%, it attracts students who are passionate about making an impact in their fields, supported by a community that values inquiry and exploration.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Johns's full profile

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Easton, Pennsylvania, Lafayette College attracts students who value a close-knit academic environment. With a graduation rate of 88%, students here are likely to find the support they need to succeed and thrive in their studies.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy, situated in Vallejo, California, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical, hands-on training. This public institution has a 63% graduation rate, indicating that students who commit to their programs can build solid careers in fields related to maritime studies and engineering.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

In Worcester, Massachusetts, the College of the Holy Cross is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and commitment to developing well-rounded students. With an impressive 88% graduation rate, Holy Cross cultivates an atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage deeply with their studies and develop critical thinking skills.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located just outside Boston, is renowned for its commitment to empowering women through education. With a 91% graduation rate, students here not only thrive academically but also forge lifelong connections and leadership skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

UC Berkeley is a powerhouse in public education, known for its vibrant campus and academic excellence. With a graduation rate of 93%, it attracts over 33,000 students who are eager to engage in a wide array of disciplines, benefiting from access to world-renowned faculty and resources in the heart of California.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 87%, Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland combines rigorous academic programs with a vibrant campus culture. The median earnings of graduates at ten years post-graduation stand at an impressive $87,989, indicating strong career outcomes for its alumni in various fields.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

Case's full profile

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University, nestled in Hamilton, New York, offers a picturesque campus and a strong liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 91%, students are well-prepared for a wide range of careers, and the close-knit community fosters collaboration and personal growth.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

Babson College, also in Wellesley, is a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. With a remarkable graduation rate of 93%, students benefit from a curriculum that emphasizes practical business education and hands-on experiences, preparing them for success in the fast-paced world of business.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

Bentley University, situated in Waltham, Massachusetts, is all about blending business and technology education. With an 88% graduation rate, students are well-equipped with skills that are highly sought after in today’s job market, fostering a dynamic and innovative learning environment.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College is known for its strong liberal arts education and an impressive 95% graduation rate. This high level of student success speaks to the college's dedication to fostering a supportive and challenging academic environment. Graduates earn a median of $82,735 after ten years, underscoring the value of a Bowdoin education in today's job market.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

With a strong focus on healthcare education, MCPHS University in Boston comes with an impressive median earning of $125,557 a decade after graduation. This figure reflects the university's commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in the health sciences, a sector that continues to grow. The school's 63% graduation rate indicates a solid level of student support and engagement, essential for those aiming for successful outcomes in their professional lives.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

MCPHS's full profile

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences welcomes students into a community dedicated to excellence in pharmaceutical and health education. The college's 68% graduation rate reflects a nurturing academic environment, while graduates enjoy median earnings of $131,426 ten years after completing their degrees. This combination signals a solid return on investment for students entering the health field.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College is a small, tight-knit community with just 1,430 students, and it boasts a stellar 90% graduation rate. The college's commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its graduates' median earnings of $79,966 at ten years, signaling a strong return on investment for students pursuing various careers.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College, with its intimate setting of 1,867 students, boasts a remarkable 91% graduation rate. The strong alumni network translates into a median earning of $81,400 a decade after graduation, showcasing the value of a Davidson education in the job market.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis presents a unique opportunity for those interested in a specialized health sciences education with a personal touch. With only 337 students, this smaller institution fosters close connections between students and faculty, enhancing learning and collaboration. The 69% graduation rate speaks to the supportive environment that encourages students to thrive in their studies.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College sits in the charming town of Waterville, Maine, and is home to a vibrant community of about 2,407 students. Known for its commitment to liberal arts, Colby emphasizes critical thinking and a global perspective, preparing students for diverse career paths after graduation.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Colby's full profile

University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · 17,597 students · Public

The University of Virginia in Charlottesville is a public institution that combines a strong academic reputation with vibrant campus life. With a remarkable 95% graduation rate, it demonstrates a commitment to student success, encouraging diverse perspectives and collaboration among its 17,597 students.

17% accepted 95% graduate $86,863 earnings

University's full profile

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With a student body of 7,298, Emory encourages a rich blend of scholarship and community engagement, fostering both personal and academic growth among its students.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Emory's full profile

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

With a strong focus on engineering and technology, Missouri University of Science and Technology graduates have a median earning of $82,957 just ten years after finishing their degree. The 64% graduation rate indicates a solid commitment to student success, particularly for those interested in hands-on learning and research opportunities in a supportive environment.

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College is known for its rigorous academic environment and strong sense of community. With a graduation rate of 93% among its 1,613 students, Swarthmore offers an intellectually stimulating atmosphere where students are encouraged to explore their passions and engage with pressing social issues.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College is known for its rigorous academics and close-knit community, attracting students who thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment. With a remarkable 94% graduation rate, students benefit from small class sizes and a commitment to liberal arts education, leading to a median earning of $77,644 ten years post-graduation.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the Claremont Colleges, Pomona College attracts a diverse student body with a focus on a liberal arts education that encourages exploration and critical thinking. The 93% graduation rate speaks to the supportive community and resources available, with graduates earning a median of $77,779 within a decade.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · 34,948 students · Public

Located in beautiful La Jolla, the University of California-San Diego serves a large, dynamic population of nearly 35,000 students. Despite its size, the school maintains an 87% graduation rate, and its graduates experience solid financial outcomes, with median earnings of $84,943 after ten years in the workforce.

27% accepted 87% graduate $84,943 earnings

University's full profile

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

With a tight-knit community of just 377 students, Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering cultivates an engaging environment focused on hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. Graduating 94% of its students, Olin is dedicated to developing engineers who are equipped to tackle complex challenges in innovative ways.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY · 6,331 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Rochester is a vibrant academic community known for its strong emphasis on research and interdisciplinary study. With an impressive graduation rate of 85%, this school attracts students who are driven and eager to engage deeply with their education in a supportive environment.

40% accepted 85% graduate $79,042 earnings

University's full profile

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, NY, offers an intimate learning environment with a strong focus on liberal arts education. With a remarkable graduation rate of 91%, students here are known for their academic dedication and the strong relationships they build with faculty, enhancing their overall learning experience.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

With a focused approach to science and engineering, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is a destination for students interested in technical fields. The school has a dedicated community of just 995 students, creating an environment where small class sizes can lead to meaningful connections with faculty and peers alike.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

New's full profile

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life, nestled in the scenic town of Northfield, Minnesota. With a graduation rate of 90%, students here benefit from a supportive environment that fosters both personal and intellectual growth, preparing them for success after college.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

DK

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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