Chemistry at Duke University

Durham, NC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
28 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
29
Optimistic
28
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $29,748/yr (-28% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI 1.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #203 of 205 Chemistry programs

Program Analysis

A Duke Chemistry degree provides an exceptional analytical foundation, but understand its typical trajectory. Many graduates from elite research universities like Duke pursue advanced degrees or research-intensive roles in academia or R&D, where initial salaries can lag behind direct industry entry in fields like tech. Your rigorous problem-solving skills are highly transferable, which is why you see paths into data science and computing, leveraging the strong tech presence alongside biotech in the Research Triangle Park. Given the high AI risk in traditional lab settings, focusing on computational chemistry, data analysis, or management skills will be crucial for your long-term career trajectory. Actively seek internships and research opportunities that bridge pure chemistry with these interdisciplinary areas early on.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $406K $412K $407K
Earnings Multiple 1.5x 1.6x 1.5x
Probability of Field Employment 57% 54% 38%
DegreeOutlook Score 29 28 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$263,220
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$137,816
48% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$8,207
3.3 months of Year 1 earnings

About Duke University

Duke University admits 7% of applicants — among the most selective institutions in the country, with a mid-sized student body of 6,417 in Durham, NC. After financial aid, the average student pays $137,816 over four years — 48% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Duke University →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Computer and information research scientists $140,910/yr
Data scientists $112,590/yr
View all 14 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Chemistry at Other Schools

Other Majors at Duke University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Duke University's Chemistry program score?
This program scores 28/100 — on the lower end for Chemistry. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Chemistry to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Chemistry careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 47% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Chemistry earnings lower at Duke University?
Lower starting pay at Duke University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →