Program Analysis
At $26,636/yr, Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies graduates from University of Southern California land near the $29,653 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
An earnings multiple of 2.5x means the program roughly breaks even in financial terms over ten years. Non-financial factors need to justify the investment.
AI risk is moderate — 62% task exposure — and the 17% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $19,131 debt-to-$26,636 income ratio translates to about 9 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #105 out of 121 programs, University of Southern California's financial outcomes for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $26,636 to $66,177 over five years (148% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.