Research and Experimental Psychology at University of California-San Diego

La Jolla, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
44
Base Case
44
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,420/yr (-33% vs median)
AI Risk High (44% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (203,900 openings/yr)
ROI 12.7x earnings multiple (4.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #25 of 84 Research and Experimental Psychology programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your experience with Research and Experimental Psychology at UC San Diego positions you exceptionally well for advanced study, given the university's strong research focus and academic rigor. The initial earnings for graduates with this bachelor's degree often reflect a common trajectory: many students pursue graduate degrees, like Master's or PhDs, to unlock the higher-paying roles listed on this page, such as becoming a licensed psychologist, a university professor, or a lead statistician. With a bachelor's, you'll likely find opportunities in research support, data analysis, or project coordination roles within academic institutions, biotech firms, or healthcare organizations prevalent in the San Diego area. These entry-level positions, while valuable for gaining experience, typically offer more modest compensation. The high AI risk rating underscores the importance of developing strong critical thinking, advanced analytical skills, and robust research design capabilities that automation cannot replicate. If you're considering this path, thoroughly research graduate school options and career paths requiring advanced degrees, as these are often essential for maximizing your long-term earning potential in this field.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Research and Experimental Psychology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $795K $776K $675K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.0x 12.7x 11.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.3x 4.2x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 48% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 44 44

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$61,060
Out-of-state: $184,168 (4.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$47,000
23% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$14,814
7.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$70,223
200% growth from Year 1

About University of California-San Diego

University of California-San Diego admits 25% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, one of the larger campuses at 33,787 students in La Jolla, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-San Diego →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Psychologists, all other $117,580/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
View all 11 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Research and Experimental Psychology at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of California-San Diego

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Research and Experimental Psychology at University of California-San Diego?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Research and Experimental Psychology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Research and Experimental Psychology at University of California-San Diego?
The 44% 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 University of California-San Diego a good choice for Research and Experimental Psychology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of California-San Diego'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 →