Linguistic & Comparative at Montclair State University

Montclair, NJ · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
32 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
32
Base Case
29
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,754/yr (-15% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Large (83,300 openings/yr)
ROI 10.3x earnings multiple (6.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #38 of 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs Top 50%

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 $625K $609K $545K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.6x 10.3x 9.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.5x 6.3x 5.6x
Probability of Field Employment 43% 38% 28%
DegreeOutlook Score 33 32 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)
$59,064
Out-of-state: $96,504 (6.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,636
4% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,375
13.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,459
146% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $23,754 track close to the $27,797 national median for Linguistic & Comparative programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 10.3x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 13% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Linguistic & Comparative career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At a 1.1x debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio, loan repayment extends well beyond graduation. Financial aid and income-driven plans become important considerations.

A #38 ranking among 79 Linguistic & Comparative programs places Montclair State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $23,754-to-$58,459 earnings arc over five years reflects a 146% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Montclair State University

Montclair State University has a 87% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 17,677 students in Montclair, NJ. With 44% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at Montclair 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 Montclair State University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Linguistic & Comparative at Montclair State University?
At 32/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Linguistic & Comparative programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Linguistic & Comparative degree from Montclair State University?
At $26,375 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Linguistic & Comparative at Montclair 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →