Communication Disorders at Western Carolina University
Cullowhee, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Communication Disorders Sciences and Services
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
34
Optimistic
34
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings
$24,521/yr (-3% vs median)
AI Risk
High (46% exposed)
Job Market
Large (41,400 openings/yr)
ROI
28.8x earnings multiple (15.3x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Communication Disorders graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $523K | $523K | $487K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 28.9x | 28.8x | 26.9x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 15.3x | 15.3x | 14.3x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 61% | 60% | 41% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 34 | 34 | 37 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$18,128
Out-of-state: $34,128 (15.3x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,870
10.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$45,599
86% growth from Year 1
About Western Carolina University
A 87% acceptance rate means Western Carolina University is accessible to most applicants, serving 9,867 students in Cullowhee, NC.
See all programs and financial aid at Western Carolina University →Top Career Paths
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Compare & Explore
Communication Disorders at Other Schools
Other Majors at Western Carolina University
Consider the Trade Route?
Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 34/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Communication Disorders at Western Carolina University?
At 34/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Communication Disorders programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Communication Disorders at Western Carolina University?
The 46% 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →