Neuroscience at Loyola University Chicago

Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Neurobiology and Neurosciences
17 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
18
Optimistic
17
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,251/yr (-19% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Large (37,400 openings/yr)
ROI 1.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #92 of 97 Neurobiology and Neurosciences programs

Program Analysis

Studying Neurobiology and Neurosciences here presents a unique challenge, primarily because a bachelor's degree in this demanding field often isn't sufficient for the high-earning career paths frequently associated with "neuroscience" in the broader sense. The listed roles like medical scientists or managers typically require extensive postgraduate education, often a Ph.D. or M.D., plus years of specialized experience. Graduates holding only a B.S. often find themselves in entry-level lab technician roles, which, while valuable, may not align with initial salary expectations. The Chicago area offers opportunities in biotech and research hospitals, but competition is fierce, and these institutions often prioritize candidates from programs with deep research integration or those holding advanced degrees. If you're drawn to this fascinating field, recognize that significant further investment in education beyond your undergraduate degree is almost certainly necessary to unlock its full career potential. Focus heavily on gaining research experience during your studies to improve your prospects for graduate school admission.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $391K $401K $396K
Earnings Multiple 1.9x 1.9x 1.9x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 48% 35%
DegreeOutlook Score 18 17 18

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$206,864
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$140,784
32% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
11.4 months of Year 1 earnings

About Loyola University Chicago

A 81% acceptance rate means Loyola University Chicago is accessible to most applicants, enrolling 11,576 students in Chicago, IL. The average net cost of $140,784 over four years represents a 32% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Loyola University Chicago →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Medical scientists, except epidemiologists $100,590/yr
Biological scientists, all other $93,330/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does Loyola University Chicago's Neuroscience program score?
This program scores 17/100 — on the lower end for Neuroscience. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Neuroscience to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Neuroscience careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 48% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Neuroscience earnings lower at Loyola University Chicago?
Lower starting pay at Loyola University Chicago 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 →