Public Policy Analysis at University of Delaware

Newark, DE · Public · Bachelor's Degree
47 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
48
Optimistic
47
Base Case
46
Pessimistic
Earnings $36,796/yr (-21% vs median)
AI Risk High (49% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (107,800 openings/yr)
ROI 10.1x earnings multiple (4.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #16 of 40 Public Policy Analysis programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Public Policy Analysis graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $663K $649K $576K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.3x 10.1x 9.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.2x 4.1x 3.6x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 50% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 48 47 46

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$64,320
Out-of-state: $158,880 (4.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$67,724
-5% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,195
8.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$67,947
85% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $36,796/yr fall 21% below the $46,424 national median for Public Policy Analysis. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 10.1x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 13% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Public Policy Analysis career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $25,195 against $36,796/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #16 ranking among 40 Public Policy Analysis programs places University of Delaware in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $36,796-to-$67,947 earnings arc over five years reflects a 85% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Delaware

With a 65% acceptance rate, University of Delaware is moderately selective, serving 18,812 students in Newark, DE.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Delaware →

Top Career Paths

Political scientists $139,380/yr
Medical and health services managers $117,960/yr
Health specialties teachers, postsecondary $105,620/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Public Policy Analysis at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Delaware

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 47/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Public Policy Analysis at University of Delaware?
At 47/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Public Policy Analysis programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Public Policy Analysis at University of Delaware?
The 49% 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 Delaware a good choice for Public Policy Analysis despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Delaware'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 →