Linguistic & Comparative at Montana State University

Bozeman, MT · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,415/yr (20% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 14.0x earnings multiple (3.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #20 of 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Linguistic & Comparative graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $445K $451K $430K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.8x 14.0x 13.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.6x 3.6x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 38% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 37 36 29

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$32,332
Out-of-state: $125,348 (3.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$82,372
-155% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
9.7 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

Montana State University's Linguistic & Comparative graduates start at $33,415/yr — above the $27,797 national average, though not by a wide margin.

With a 14.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Linguistic & Comparative career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $27,000 against $33,415/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Montana State University ranks #20 among 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

About Montana State University

A 87% acceptance rate means Montana State University is accessible to most applicants, serving 14,472 students in Bozeman, MT.

See all programs and financial aid at Montana State University →

Top Career Paths

Social scientists and related workers, all other $100,340/yr
English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
Foreign language and literature teachers, postsecondary $77,010/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Linguistic & Comparative at Other Schools

Other Majors at Montana State 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 36/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistic & Comparative at Montana State University?
At 36/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Linguistic & Comparative programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Linguistic & Comparative at Montana State University?
The 56% 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 Montana State University one of the best schools for Linguistic & Comparative?
Among 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs, Montana State University's #20 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 →