Cognitive Science at University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
62 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
62
Optimistic
62
Base Case
61
Pessimistic
Earnings $84,314/yr (76% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (22% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (111,400 openings/yr)
ROI 3.1x earnings multiple
Ranked #3 of 19 Cognitive Science programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Cognitive Science graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $833K $821K $757K
Earnings Multiple 3.1x 3.1x 2.9x
Probability of Field Employment 52% 50% 44%
DegreeOutlook Score 62 62 61

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$264,416
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$124,916
53% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,820
2.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$109,527
30% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $84,314 per year, Cognitive Science graduates from University of Pennsylvania significantly outpace the $47,910 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

The 3.1x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.

AI risk is moderate — 22% task exposure — and the 9% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.

The median debt load of $18,820 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

Ranked #3 out of 19 programs, University of Pennsylvania's Cognitive Science program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.

The five-year earnings trajectory from $84,314 to $109,527 shows 30% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.

About University of Pennsylvania

With just 6% of applicants admitted, University of Pennsylvania ranks among the nation's most selective schools, serving 10,768 students in Philadelphia, PA. The average net cost of $124,916 over four years represents a 53% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Pennsylvania →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
Community and social service specialists, all other $54,940/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Cognitive Science at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Pennsylvania

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of Pennsylvania's Cognitive Science program score?
This program scores 62/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Cognitive Science graduates.
Why does University of Pennsylvania rank so high for Cognitive Science?
The #3 ranking out of 19 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
How affordable is Cognitive Science at University of Pennsylvania after financial aid?
Sticker price is $264,416, but the average net cost is $124,916 — a 53% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →