Romance Languages at University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
36
Optimistic
36
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,966/yr (-22% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (58% exposed)
Job Market Large (75,000 openings/yr)
ROI 10.9x earnings multiple (3.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #93 of 198 Romance Languages & Literatures programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

A UCLA degree in Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics offers a deeply enriching academic experience, drawing on the university's strong humanities tradition and excellent faculty. The salary data reflects the typical career paths for this field, which often lead to professions like teaching, interpreting, or roles in cultural institutions rather than direct corporate pipelines. These careers are intrinsically rewarding and crucial for global understanding, but often have different compensation structures compared to STEM or business fields, particularly in the initial years after graduation. The "Very High" AI risk score highlights the evolving landscape for language-related professions, especially for entry-level translation or routine content creation, where AI tools are rapidly advancing. However, human nuance, cultural context, and the ability to teach complex literary concepts remain invaluable. To maximize your prospects, consider pairing your linguistic expertise with practical skills like digital humanities, data analysis, or a specific industry focus through internships. Leveraging UCLA's vast alumni network and career services for applied roles in international business, marketing, or non-profits could also open doors.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $617K $601K $538K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.2x 10.9x 9.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.5x 3.4x 3.0x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 38% 27%
DegreeOutlook Score 36 36 30

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 (3.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,052
-2% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$14,000
6.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$60,038
123% growth from Year 1

About University of California-Los Angeles

University of California-Los Angeles admits 9% of applicants — among the most selective institutions in the country, 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

Foreign language and literature teachers, postsecondary $77,010/yr
Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education $64,580/yr
Interpreters and translators $59,440/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Romance Languages at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of California-Los Angeles

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of California-Los Angeles's Romance Languages program score?
This program scores 36/100 — on the lower end for Romance Languages. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Romance Languages to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Romance Languages careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 58% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Romance Languages earnings lower at University of California-Los Angeles?
Lower starting pay at University of California-Los Angeles may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →