Program Analysis
Clemson University's Materials Engineering program produces graduates earning $69,763/yr — within striking distance of the $71,341 national average for this field.
The 11.6x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. By pure financial math, this is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 48% task exposure — and the 14% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $25,246 in median debt clears quickly against $69,763 in annual earnings.
At #18 out of 33 programs, Clemson University's financial outcomes for Materials Engineering trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth is modest: $69,763 to $82,276 over five years (18% gain). This field may have a lower salary ceiling than high-growth professions.