Chemistry at Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
44
Optimistic
44
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings
$37,526/yr (-9% vs median)
AI Risk
High (47% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (169,700 openings/yr)
ROI
3.7x earnings multiple
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 | $699K | $687K | $605K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.8x | 3.7x | 3.2x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 57% | 54% | 38% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 44 | 44 | 45 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$186,352
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
8.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$71,188
90% growth from Year 1
About Valparaiso University
Valparaiso University has a 92% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 2,229 in Valparaiso, IN. The average net cost of $86,332 over four years represents a 54% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Valparaiso University →Top Career Paths
Natural sciences managers
$161,180/yr
Computer and information research scientists
$140,910/yr
Data scientists
$112,590/yr
Compare & Explore
Chemistry at Other Schools
Other Majors at Valparaiso University
Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?
For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Valparaiso University's Chemistry program score?
This program scores 44/100 — on the lower end for Chemistry. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Chemistry to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Chemistry careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 47% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is Chemistry at Valparaiso University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $186,352, but the average net cost is $86,332 — a 54% 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 →