Rhetoric & Writing at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
45 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
46
Optimistic
45
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $39,526/yr (33% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI 12.6x earnings multiple (4.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

This program's strong showing reflects the robust demand for skilled communicators in the growing Denver metropolitan area. MSU Denver, as an urban public institution, often emphasizes practical, career-oriented skills, and its Rhetoric and Composition program effectively aligns with local industry needs. Denver's economy, with significant sectors in tech, healthcare, government, and professional services, constantly requires individuals who can translate complex information, craft persuasive messages, and manage digital content. You'll find graduates excelling in roles like technical writing, content strategy, and strategic communications, where clarity and audience awareness are paramount. While AI's rise might seem concerning, your ability to apply critical thinking, ethical considerations, and nuanced human understanding to communication tasks will be invaluable. Focus on securing internships with local tech firms or non-profits to apply your skills and build professional networks.

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 $553K $545K $497K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.8x 12.6x 11.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.7x 4.6x 4.2x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 42% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 46 45 37

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,120
Out-of-state: $118,012 (4.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$57,176
-33% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,813
5.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$56,872
44% growth from Year 1

About Metropolitan State University of Denver

A 99% acceptance rate means Metropolitan State University of Denver is accessible to most applicants, serving 14,932 students in Denver, CO.

See all programs and financial aid at Metropolitan State University of Denver →

Top Career Paths

Technical writers $91,670/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Rhetoric & Writing at Other Schools

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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 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Rhetoric & Writing at Metropolitan State University of Denver?
At 45/100, 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 Metropolitan State University of Denver?
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 →