Does your ideal degree pay what you expect?
After graduation, materials science and engineering graduates typically earn high salaries compared to the national average. Top earners make $110,637, while the bottom 20% make closer to $43,817. The median grad salary is $69,626.
Materials Science and Engineering graduate salaries over time
The typical early career salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in materials science and engineering is $59,497, and within five years of graduation, this average salary goes up to $72,924.
This chart maps the average workforce wage by years of experience:
Wage ($USD)
Wage Range Median Wage
Years of work experience
Highest paying jobs for materials science and engineering graduates
The highest paying career for materials science and engineering graduates is materials scientist, with top salaries averaging around $99,504.
Highest Paying Careers
Avg Pay (USD)
As per most recent US census
Pro tip
Still unsure if a degree in materials science and engineering is your calling? Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a career
