Information Science/Studies at University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree
58 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
58
Optimistic
58
Base Case
52
Pessimistic
Earnings $49,165/yr (-17% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (68% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (221,900 openings/yr)
ROI 10.2x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #116 of 129 Information Science/Studies programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $545K $541K $493K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.3x 10.2x 9.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.1x 4.0x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 74% 68% 39%
DegreeOutlook Score 58 58 52

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$52,848
Out-of-state: $133,624 (4.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$68,872
-30% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
6.1 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

University of Kentucky's Information Science/Studies graduates start at $49,165/yr, trailing the $59,433 national average by 17%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

With a 10.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Information Science/Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $25,000 against $49,165/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #116 ranking among 129 Information Science/Studies programs places University of Kentucky in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About University of Kentucky

A 92% acceptance rate means University of Kentucky is accessible to most applicants, with 23,189 students enrolled in Lexington, KY.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Kentucky →

Top Career Paths

Computer and information systems managers $171,200/yr
Computer and information research scientists $140,910/yr
Database architects $135,980/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Information Science/Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Kentucky

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

What does a 58/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Information Science/Studies at University of Kentucky?
At 58/100, the score looks reasonable — but Information Science/Studies is a high-scoring field overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
Should I worry about AI if I study Information Science/Studies at University of Kentucky?
The 68% 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 Kentucky a good choice for Information Science/Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Kentucky'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 →