Chemistry at New York University

New York, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $37,249/yr (-10% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI 3.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #177 of 205 Chemistry programs

Program Analysis

NYU's Chemistry program, situated within a leading urban institution, often sees its graduates charting diverse paths. The initial earnings profile reflects a common trend for chemistry undergraduates: many leverage their foundational science knowledge to pursue graduate studies, particularly Ph.D. programs, where the highest earning potential in advanced research and development roles typically emerges. For those entering the workforce directly, New York City's robust economy offers opportunities in adjacent fields like data analytics, biotech sales, or quality control roles, rather than traditional large-scale chemical manufacturing. The indicated high AI risk highlights the evolving nature of the discipline; routine lab tasks and data analysis are increasingly automated. To truly stand out, you'll want to cultivate interdisciplinary skills. Focus on areas like computational chemistry, cheminformatics, or combining your scientific rigor with strong data science capabilities to position yourself at the forefront of innovation. Seek out research opportunities that integrate these analytical and technological approaches early in your academic journey.

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 $802K $784K $674K
Earnings Multiple 3.3x 3.2x 2.8x
Probability of Field Employment 57% 54% 38%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$241,752
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$140,140
42% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,125
7.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$80,938
117% growth from Year 1

About New York University

With just 9% of applicants admitted, New York University ranks among the nation's most selective schools, with 29,430 students enrolled in New York, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $140,140 over four years — 42% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at New York 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 New York University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Chemistry at New York University?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Chemistry programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Chemistry at New York University?
The 47% 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →