Linguistics at Rutgers University-New Brunswick

New Brunswick, NJ · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
26
Base Case
24
Pessimistic
Earnings $16,796/yr (-40% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 9.2x earnings multiple (4.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #65 of 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs

Program Analysis

While a degree in Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies at Rutgers provides a rigorous intellectual foundation, its academic focus often means a less direct path to immediate high-paying employment compared to vocational majors. The earnings data reflects this reality: many graduates pursue further education, like master's or PhDs, essential for roles in academia (postsecondary teaching) or specialized research, which then typically come with higher earning potential later on. The listed career paths, particularly postsecondary education and social sciences, reinforce this need for advanced study. Moreover, the high AI risk indicates that roles relying on basic language processing or translation may face automation. To maximize your prospects, consider pairing your linguistic skills with a complementary minor or internship in areas like data science, computer science (for natural language processing), UX research, or international business, leveraging Rutgers' diverse offerings within the competitive New Jersey/NYC job market. This practical overlay can significantly enhance your marketability.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $650K $631K $561K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.4x 9.2x 8.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.5x 4.4x 3.9x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 38% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 26 26 24

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,956
Out-of-state: $144,004 (4.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$94,076
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,345
16.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$53,565
219% growth from Year 1

About Rutgers University-New Brunswick

Rutgers University-New Brunswick's 65% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, one of the larger campuses at 36,357 students in New Brunswick, NJ.

See all programs and financial aid at Rutgers University-New Brunswick →

Top Career Paths

Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
Foreign language and literature teachers, postsecondary $77,010/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Linguistics at Other Schools

Other Majors at Rutgers University-New Brunswick

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 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistics at Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Linguistics programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Linguistics degree from Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
At $22,345 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Linguistics at Rutgers University-New Brunswick?
The 56% 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 Rutgers University-New Brunswick a good choice for Linguistics despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Rutgers University-New Brunswick'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 →