Home › University of Memphis › Linguistic & Comparative

Linguistic & Comparative at University of Memphis

Memphis, TN · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $23,533/yr (-15% vs median)

AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)

Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)

ROI 12.5x earnings multiple (8.7x out-of-state)

Ranked #51 of 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Linguistic & Comparative graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$520K	$516K	$477K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	12.6x	12.5x	11.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	8.8x	8.7x	8.1x
Probability of Field Employment	43%	38%	28%
DegreeOutlook Score	29	29	25

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$41,376

Out-of-state: $59,136 (8.7x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$53,012

-28% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,279

10.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$45,728

94% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

University of Memphis's Linguistic & Comparative graduates start at $23,533/yr, trailing the $27,797 national average by 15%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

With a 12.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 8% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Linguistic & Comparative career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,279 against $23,533/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #51 ranking among 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs places University of Memphis in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $23,533-to-$45,728 earnings arc over five years reflects a 94% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Memphis

A 93% acceptance rate means University of Memphis is accessible to most applicants, serving 13,645 students in Memphis, TN.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Memphis →

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

Linguistic & Comparative at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Memphis

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

What does a 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistic & Comparative at University of Memphis?

At 29/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Linguistic & Comparative programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Linguistic & Comparative at University of Memphis?

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 University of Memphis a good choice for Linguistic & Comparative despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If University of Memphis'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 →