Rhetoric & Writing at Elmhurst University
Elmhurst, IL · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
25
Optimistic
24
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings
$33,556/yr (13% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market
Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI
3.3x earnings multiple
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Rhetoric & Writing graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $550K | $542K | $494K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.3x | 3.3x | 3.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 42% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 25 | 24 | 18 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$166,512
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,500
7.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$54,045
61% growth from Year 1
About Elmhurst University
Elmhurst University has a 76% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 2,954 in Elmhurst, IL. The average net cost of $84,252 over four years represents a 49% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Elmhurst University →Top Career Paths
Technical writers
$91,670/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other
$78,490/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary
$78,270/yr
Compare & Explore
Rhetoric & Writing at Other Schools
Other Majors at Elmhurst University
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 24/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Rhetoric & Writing at Elmhurst University?
At 24/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Rhetoric & Writing programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Rhetoric & Writing at Elmhurst University?
The 62% 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →