Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at University of Wisconsin-Stout

Menomonie, WI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,423/yr (19% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (62% exposed)
Job Market Large (48,200 openings/yr)
ROI 12.8x earnings multiple (6.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #25 of 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs Top 25%

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 $521K $517K $478K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.9x 12.8x 11.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.0x 6.9x 6.4x
Probability of Field Employment 49% 42% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 38 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$40,568
Out-of-state: $74,824 (6.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$69,460
-71% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
8.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$50,892
44% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $35,423 at University of Wisconsin-Stout come in 19% above the national median of $29,653 for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs.

With a 12.8x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 8% 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 $25,000 against $35,423/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

University of Wisconsin-Stout ranks #25 among 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

A 44% earnings increase from $35,423 to $50,892 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About University of Wisconsin-Stout

University of Wisconsin-Stout accepts 85% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, serving 5,900 students in Menomonie, WI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Wisconsin-Stout →

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

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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 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at University of Wisconsin-Stout?
At 38/100, 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 Wisconsin-Stout?
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.
Is University of Wisconsin-Stout one of the best schools for Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies?
Among 121 Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies programs, University of Wisconsin-Stout's #25 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 →