Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Arcadia University

Glenside, PA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
19 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
19
Optimistic
19
Base Case
15
Pessimistic
Earnings $27,390/yr (-8% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI 2.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #96 of 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $404K $417K $409K
Earnings Multiple 2.1x 2.2x 2.1x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 42% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 19 19 15

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$193,160
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$103,464
46% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
11.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Arcadia University's Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies program produces graduates earning $27,390/yr — within striking distance of the $29,653 national average for this field.

At 2.2x tuition cost, the financial math is tight. Decade earnings don't dramatically exceed what you paid, making school choice and aid packages critical.

The -1% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $27,000 against $27,390/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #96 ranking among 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs places Arcadia University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Arcadia University

A 79% acceptance rate means Arcadia University is accessible to most applicants, a compact campus enrolling 1,799 students in Glenside, PA. The average net cost of $103,464 over four years represents a 46% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Arcadia University →

Top Career Paths

Technical writers $91,670/yr
Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at Arcadia 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 19/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Arcadia University?
At 19/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Arcadia University?
The 62% 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 →