Apparel and Textiles at University of Northern Iowa

Cedar Falls, IA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
59 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
60
Optimistic
59
Base Case
56
Pessimistic
Earnings $44,647/yr (24% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (133,800 openings/yr)
ROI 14.2x earnings multiple (6.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #6 of 53 Apparel and Textiles programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The University of Northern Iowa's Apparel and Textiles program distinguishes itself by often focusing on the technical and business aspects of the industry, rather than solely on high-fashion design. This emphasis frequently equips graduates for roles in product development, textile science, supply chain management, or retail operations within larger corporations and specialized manufacturing firms, particularly those serving the Midwest's agricultural, industrial, or corporate uniform sectors. You'll find graduates contributing to material innovation and merchandising for companies that value practical application and efficient production. While the field faces evolving AI integration, cultivating strong analytical and managerial skills, alongside your textile knowledge, will be crucial for long-term career resilience and upward mobility.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Apparel and Textiles graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $562K $554K $511K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.4x 14.2x 13.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.6x 6.5x 6.0x
Probability of Field Employment 54% 48% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 60 59 56

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,912
Out-of-state: $85,088 (6.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$58,436
-50% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,625
5.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,815
32% growth from Year 1

About University of Northern Iowa

University of Northern Iowa accepts 94% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, serving 7,599 students in Cedar Falls, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Northern Iowa →

Top Career Paths

Marketing managers $161,030/yr
Materials scientists $104,160/yr
Fashion designers $80,690/yr
View all 8 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Apparel and Textiles at Other Schools

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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 59/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Apparel and Textiles at University of Northern Iowa?
At 59/100, University of Northern Iowa's Apparel and Textiles program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Apparel and Textiles at University of Northern Iowa?
The 47% 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 Northern Iowa one of the best schools for Apparel and Textiles?
Among 53 Apparel and Textiles programs, University of Northern Iowa's #6 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →