Rhetoric & Writing at Saint Edward's University
Austin, TX · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
23
Optimistic
23
Base Case
17
Pessimistic
Earnings
$31,518/yr (6% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market
Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI
2.1x 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 | $428K | $437K | $423K |
| Earnings Multiple | 2.1x | 2.1x | 2.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 49% | 42% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 23 | 23 | 17 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$205,536
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,000
9.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (4 Year)
$38,176
21% growth from Year 1
About Saint Edward's University
A 84% acceptance rate means Saint Edward's University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 2,729 students in Austin, TX. The average net cost of $94,544 over four years represents a 54% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Saint Edward's 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 Saint Edward's University
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
How does Saint Edward's University's Rhetoric & Writing program score?
This program scores 23/100 — on the lower end for Rhetoric & Writing. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Rhetoric & Writing to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Rhetoric & Writing careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 62% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is Rhetoric & Writing at Saint Edward's University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $205,536, but the average net cost is $94,544 — a 54% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →