Cultural Studies at Northern Arizona University

Flagstaff, AZ · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis
25 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
25
Optimistic
25
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,458/yr (0% vs median)
AI Risk High (34% exposed)
Job Market Medium (17,800 openings/yr)
ROI 11.7x earnings multiple (5.1x out-of-state)
Ranked #1 of 1 Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis programs Top 1%

Program Analysis

This program at Northern Arizona University is truly unique, being the sole offering of its kind nationally. Consequently, the earnings data reflects the specific career trajectories common for graduates from this particular program, rather than a broad market comparison. Your path will heavily leverage the advanced critical thinking and analytical skills honed here, often leading to roles in academia, research, or policy analysis within non-profits and government, particularly in a university town like Flagstaff. While some listed career paths show a high AI risk, your ability to interpret complex cultural phenomena and provide nuanced insights remains invaluable. To maximize your prospects in this specialized field, actively seek internships or research assistantships early on to apply your theoretical knowledge in practical settings and build a robust professional network.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $603K $594K $552K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.9x 11.7x 10.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.2x 5.1x 4.8x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 50% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 25 25 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$50,608
Out-of-state: $115,600 (5.1x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,688
-18% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,125
11.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$51,589
140% growth from Year 1

About Northern Arizona University

With 91% of applicants admitted, Northern Arizona University prioritizes broad access, with 23,041 students enrolled in Flagstaff, AZ.

See all programs and financial aid at Northern Arizona University →

Top Career Paths

Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary $84,290/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Other Majors at Northern Arizona University

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Cultural Studies at Northern Arizona University?
A score of 25/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Cultural Studies. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace Cultural Studies careers?
With 34% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $551,627 in decade earnings vs $602,601 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
What makes Northern Arizona University's Cultural Studies program stand out?
Ranked #1 of 1 programs nationally, Northern Arizona University lands in the top 1%. The ranking reflects a combination of graduate earnings, return on investment, and job market alignment.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →