Natural Sciences at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey

Cayey, PR · Public · Bachelor's Degree
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
27
Optimistic
26
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $11,821/yr (-63% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market Medium (24,400 openings/yr)
ROI 21.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #8 of 11 Natural Sciences programs

Program Analysis

Your journey through Natural Sciences at UPR Cayey positions you uniquely within the island's robust public university system. The initial earnings reflect the distinct economic landscape of Puerto Rico, where local opportunities, often in government, education, or early-stage research, typically offer different salary scales than those found on the mainland U.S. This program excels as a foundational stepping stone, equipping you with critical analytical skills for further academic pursuits. Many graduates leverage this degree for teaching positions or entry-level lab roles within local institutions, or as a strong springboard into medical school or other advanced scientific fields. To truly unlock the higher earning potential seen in roles like managers or advanced scientists, pursuing a master's or doctoral degree is often essential, and considering opportunities beyond the island could significantly broaden your career prospects.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Natural Sciences graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $463K $464K $452K
Earnings Multiple 21.6x 21.7x 21.1x
Probability of Field Employment 77% 74% 64%
DegreeOutlook Score 27 26 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$21,416
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$36,592
-71% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$5,500
5.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$31,621
167% growth from Year 1

About University of Puerto Rico at Cayey

University of Puerto Rico at Cayey has a 96% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 2,201 in Cayey, PR. 76% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey →

Top Career Paths

Natural sciences managers $161,180/yr
Physical scientists, all other $117,960/yr
Life scientists, all other $87,800/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Natural Sciences at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey

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 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Natural Sciences at University of Puerto Rico at Cayey?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Natural Sciences programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is University of Puerto Rico at Cayey a good choice for Natural Sciences despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Puerto Rico at Cayey'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 →