Chemistry at Southern Methodist University
Dallas, TX · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings
$38,919/yr (-6% vs median)
AI Risk
High (47% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI
1.8x earnings multiple
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 | $466K | $468K | $447K |
| Earnings Multiple | 1.8x | 1.8x | 1.7x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 57% | 54% | 38% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 39 | 38 | 38 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$257,840
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,750
7.0 months of Year 1 earnings
About Southern Methodist University
Southern Methodist University's 61% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, with a mid-sized student body of 7,106 in Dallas, TX. The average net cost of $167,112 over four years represents a 35% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Southern Methodist University →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Computer and information research scientists
$140,910/yr
Data scientists
$112,590/yr
Compare & Explore
Chemistry at Other Schools
Other Majors at Southern Methodist 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
What does a 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Chemistry at Southern Methodist University?
At 38/100, 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 Southern Methodist 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 →