Physics at Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
41 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
42
Optimistic
41
Base Case
50
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,001/yr (-33% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Large (77,700 openings/yr)
ROI 17.9x earnings multiple (6.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #58 of 75 Physics programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $624K $608K $554K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 18.4x 17.9x 16.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.6x 6.4x 5.8x
Probability of Field Employment 70% 62% 46%
DegreeOutlook Score 42 41 50

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$33,912
Out-of-state: $94,836 (6.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$63,724
-88% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,859
8.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,198
85% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $31,001/yr fall 33% below the $46,482 national median for Physics. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 17.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 11% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Physics career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,859 against $31,001/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #58 ranking among 75 Physics programs places Georgia State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $31,001-to-$57,198 earnings arc over five years reflects a 85% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Georgia State University

With a 62% acceptance rate, Georgia State University is moderately selective, one of the larger campuses at 27,109 students in Atlanta, GA. With 50% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at Georgia State University →

Top Career Paths

Physicists $166,290/yr
Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Physics teachers, postsecondary $97,360/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Physics at Other Schools

Other Majors at Georgia State University

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 41/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Physics at Georgia State University?
At 41/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Physics programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Physics at Georgia State University?
The 50% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Georgia State University a good choice for Physics despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Georgia State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →