Chemistry at University of Virginia-Main Campus

Charlottesville, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
42 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
43
Optimistic
42
Base Case
46
Pessimistic
Earnings $30,599/yr (-26% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI 8.5x earnings multiple (3.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #186 of 205 Chemistry programs

Program Analysis

A chemistry degree from UVA provides a rigorous scientific foundation, highly valued for its analytical and problem-solving training. However, bachelor's-level chemistry roles often require further specialization through graduate school for top-tier research or industry positions. Many UVA graduates leverage their strong quantitative skills to pivot into adjacent fields like data science, computational roles, or pre-health tracks, where the foundational scientific literacy is a significant asset. Your career trajectory will heavily depend on how you augment this degree—perhaps through a master's or PhD, or by aggressively pursuing internships in data analysis or software development. Consider exploring the numerous research opportunities available within the university, or seeking out internships in regions with strong biotech or pharmaceutical industries, as these experiences are crucial for distinguishing yourself.

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 $726K $712K $622K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 8.6x 8.5x 7.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.1x 3.1x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 57% 54% 38%
DegreeOutlook Score 43 42 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)
$83,944
Out-of-state: $232,056 (3.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$91,524
-9% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,000
7.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$69,058
126% growth from Year 1

About University of Virginia-Main Campus

University of Virginia-Main Campus accepts 17% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, with a mid-sized student body of 17,315 in Charlottesville, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Virginia-Main Campus →

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

Chemistry at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Virginia-Main Campus

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 42/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Chemistry at University of Virginia-Main Campus?
At 42/100, 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 of Virginia-Main Campus?
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.
Is University of Virginia-Main Campus a good choice for Chemistry despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Virginia-Main Campus'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 →