Linguistics at San Diego State University
San Diego, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
25
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings
$22,001/yr (-21% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market
Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI
12.1x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
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 | $389K | $401K | $394K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 11.7x | 12.1x | 11.9x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.8x | 5.0x | 4.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 43% | 38% | 28% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 26 | 25 | 22 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$33,160
Out-of-state: $80,680 (5.0x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$11,000
6.0 months of Year 1 earnings
About San Diego State University
San Diego State University admits 34% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, one of the larger campuses at 33,654 students in San Diego, CA.
See all programs and financial aid at San Diego State University →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
Compare & Explore
Linguistics at Other Schools
Other Majors at San Diego State 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
What does a 25/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistics at San Diego State University?
At 25/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Linguistics programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Linguistics at San Diego State University?
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 San Diego State University a good choice for Linguistics despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If San Diego State University'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 →