Chemistry at University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY · Public · Bachelor's Degree
48 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
49
Optimistic
48
Base Case
50
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,284/yr (-14% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI 12.9x earnings multiple (4.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #165 of 205 Chemistry programs

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 $561K $556K $511K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.0x 12.9x 11.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.6x 4.6x 4.2x
Probability of Field Employment 57% 54% 38%
DegreeOutlook Score 49 48 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)
$43,128
Out-of-state: $122,288 (4.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$81,880
-90% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,783
7.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$55,029
56% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $35,284/yr, Chemistry graduates from University at Buffalo land near the $41,256 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 12.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Chemistry career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,783 against $35,284/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #165 ranking among 205 Chemistry programs places University at Buffalo in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $35,284-to-$55,029 earnings arc over five years reflects a 56% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University at Buffalo

University at Buffalo accepts 69% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving a student body of 20,284 in Buffalo, NY.

See all programs and financial aid at University at Buffalo →

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

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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 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Chemistry at University at Buffalo?
At 48/100, 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 University at Buffalo?
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 →