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Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $35,634/yr (20% vs median)

AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)

Job Market Large (48,200 openings/yr)

ROI 21.0x earnings multiple (7.8x out-of-state)

Ranked #11 of 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs Top 10%

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	$546K	$538K	$492K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	21.3x	21.0x	19.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	7.9x	7.8x	7.1x
Probability of Field Employment	49%	42%	29%
DegreeOutlook Score	46	45	39

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$25,640

Out-of-state: $69,296 (7.8x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$40,172

-57% less than sticker · See by income

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$54,382

53% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $35,634 per year, Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies graduates from University of South Florida earn slightly above the $29,653 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 21.0x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% 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 #11 of 121 programs, this Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

The $35,634-to-$54,382 earnings arc over five years reflects a 53% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of South Florida

University of South Florida accepts 41% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, one of the larger campuses at 36,299 students in Tampa, FL.

See all programs and financial aid at University of South Florida →

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at University of South Florida?

At 45/100, 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 University of South Florida?

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 →