Area Studies at University of Puget Sound
Tacoma, WA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
17
Optimistic
17
Base Case
18
Pessimistic
Earnings
$29,232/yr (-18% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Small (1,100 openings/yr)
ROI
1.7x earnings multiple
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Area Studies graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $407K | $417K | $408K |
| Earnings Multiple | 1.7x | 1.7x | 1.7x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 55% | 48% | 36% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 17 | 17 | 18 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$239,600
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
11.1 months of Year 1 earnings
About University of Puget Sound
With 76% of applicants admitted, University of Puget Sound prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 1,631 students in Tacoma, WA. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $155,680 — 35% less than the list price.
See all programs and financial aid at University of Puget Sound →Top Career Paths
Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary
$84,290/yr
Compare & Explore
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does University of Puget Sound's Area Studies program score?
This program scores 17/100 — on the lower end for Area Studies. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is Area Studies to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Area Studies careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 50% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Area Studies earnings lower at University of Puget Sound?
Lower starting pay at University of Puget Sound 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 →