Linguistics at University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $30,524/yr (10% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 12.2x earnings multiple (3.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #5 of 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Your UCLA degree in Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies opens doors well beyond traditional academic paths. The above-average earnings reflect the high caliber of UCLA graduates and their adaptability, particularly within the dynamic Los Angeles job market. This isn't a direct vocational pipeline; instead, you're developing sophisticated analytical, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication skills highly valued across diverse sectors. Consider roles in tech (user experience, natural language processing), international relations, government, or even marketing and media, where understanding communication nuances is paramount. While some tasks, like basic translation, face high AI risk, the program's rigor prepares you for complex problem-solving and strategic roles that AI cannot replicate. To maximize your prospects, actively seek internships that apply your linguistic insights in real-world settings, perhaps in L.A.'s entertainment, tech, or non-profit industries, and cultivate complementary skills like data analysis or advanced foreign language proficiency.

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 $697K $672K $591K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.7x 12.2x 10.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.9x 3.8x 3.3x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 38% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$54,988
Out-of-state: $178,096 (3.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,052
-2% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$15,000
5.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$72,162
136% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Los Angeles

University of California-Los Angeles's 9% admission rate places it in the top tier of selectivity nationally, serving a student body of 33,040 in Los Angeles, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of California-Los Angeles →

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 University of California-Los Angeles

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 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistics at University of California-Los Angeles?
At 44/100, 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 University of California-Los Angeles?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →