English Language and Literature, General at University of San Diego

San Diego, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
16 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
16
Optimistic
16
Base Case
13
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,475/yr (-26% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 2.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #469 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to English Language and Literature, General graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $635K $616K $546K
Earnings Multiple 2.8x 2.7x 2.4x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 16 16 13

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$225,776
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$125,060
45% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,000
12.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$56,908
153% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $22,475/yr fall 26% below the $30,427 national median for English Language and Literature, General. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

At 2.7x tuition cost, the financial math is tight. Decade earnings don't dramatically exceed what you paid, making school choice and aid packages critical.

The 14% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some English Language and Literature, General 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 #469 ranking among 493 English Language and Literature, General programs places University of San Diego in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $22,475-to-$56,908 earnings arc over five years reflects a 153% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of San Diego

With a 47% acceptance rate, University of San Diego is moderately selective, serving 5,619 students in San Diego, CA. After financial aid, the average student pays $125,060 over four years — 45% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at University of San Diego →

Top Career Paths

English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education $64,580/yr
Proofreaders and copy markers $49,210/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

English Language and Literature, General at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of San Diego

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 16/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English Language and Literature, General at University of San Diego?
At 16/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring English Language and Literature, General programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a English Language and Literature, General degree from University of San Diego?
At $24,000 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 English Language and Literature, General at University of San Diego?
The 61% 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 University of San Diego a good choice for English Language and Literature, General despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of San Diego's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →