Analysis
Duke's highly selective cognitive science program comes with an estimated $18,000 in debt—a manageable figure by any standard—but the estimated first-year earnings of roughly $41,000 deserve closer scrutiny. This figure, drawn from peer cognitive science programs nationally, suggests a relatively modest initial return for a degree from one of the nation's most competitive universities. With an admission rate of 7% and average SAT scores near 1540, Duke attracts exceptionally capable students who might reasonably expect stronger early-career outcomes.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 looks solid on paper, meaning debt equals less than half of first-year income. However, cognitive science graduates from similar programs typically see earnings around $41,000 to $51,000 in their first year, placing this estimate at the lower end of that range. For Duke specifically, with its powerful alumni network and brand recognition, actual outcomes could differ significantly—either higher if graduates leverage Duke's connections into competitive roles in tech, consulting, or research, or similar if the interdisciplinary nature of cognitive science leads to varied career paths with uneven early compensation.
The key question is whether Duke's premium justifies this investment when initial earnings appear modest. If your child plans to pursue graduate school (common for cognitive science majors heading toward research or clinical work), these early earnings matter less than the program's academic rigor and preparation for advanced study.
Where Duke University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cognitive science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Cognitive Science bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Duke UniversityDurham | $65,805 | $41,362* | — | $18,000* | — |
 Stanford UniversityStanford | $62,484 | $105,695* | — | $8,055* | 0.08 |
 University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia | $66,104 | $84,314* | $96,904 | $18,660* | 0.22 |
 Tufts UniversityMedford | $67,844 | $75,672* | — | $18,000* | 0.24 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $64,559* | $91,715 | $13,950* | 0.22 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $53,962* | $62,158 | $13,000* | 0.24 |
| National Median | — | $41,362* | — | $17,750* | 0.43 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cognitive science graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other
Directors, Religious Activities and Education
Religious Workers, All Other
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
Self-Enrichment Teachers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Duke University, approximately 13% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 19 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.