Peace Studies at DePaul University

Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution
21 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
21
Optimistic
21
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $32,523/yr (-21% vs median)
AI Risk High (34% exposed)
Job Market Medium (17,000 openings/yr)
ROI 2.4x earnings multiple
Ranked #5 of 5 Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution programs

Program Analysis

DePaul's Peace Studies program, with its Vincentian mission, uniquely positions graduates for impact-driven roles within Chicago's extensive non-profit, community advocacy, and public service sectors. The earnings profile often reflects the nature of these careers, where passion and social contribution frequently outweigh private sector salary potential. You'll develop critical skills in mediation, negotiation, and community organizing, highly valued by local and international NGOs, government agencies, and educational institutions. The noted AI risk highlights how technology could streamline certain administrative or analytical aspects of social science and conflict resolution. However, the core human elements of empathy, nuanced interpersonal communication, and complex decision-making remain central to effective mediation and advocacy. To maximize your prospects, actively pursue diverse internships and experiential learning opportunities, building a robust network within Chicago's rich ecosystem of social justice organizations.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Peace Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $419K $425K $412K
Earnings Multiple 2.4x 2.4x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 62% 57% 47%
DegreeOutlook Score 21 21 30

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$177,840
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$116,564
34% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,500
9.0 months of Year 1 earnings

About DePaul University

DePaul University has a 74% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 14,283 students in Chicago, IL. The average net cost of $116,564 over four years represents a 34% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at DePaul University →

Top Career Paths

Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators $67,710/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Peace Studies at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Peace Studies at DePaul University?
A score of 21/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Peace Studies. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace Peace Studies careers?
With 34% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $412,388 in decade earnings vs $418,756 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with Peace Studies from DePaul University?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →