Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at DePaul University
Master's Degree
Earnings Distribution
How DePaul University graduates compare to all programs nationally
DePaul University graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 72th percentile of all rhetoric and composition/writing studies masters programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies masters's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DePaul University | $49,334 | $50,336 | — | — |
| National Louis University | $49,641 | — | — | — |
| School of the Art Institute of Chicago | $37,157 | — | — | — |
| Columbia College Chicago | $33,972 | $48,195 | — | — |
| National Median | $41,249 | — | — | — |
Other Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies Programs in Illinois
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Illinois schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Louis University Chicago | $12,345 | $49,641 | — |
| School of the Art Institute of Chicago Chicago | $54,530 | $37,157 | — |
| Columbia College Chicago Chicago | $32,520 | $33,972 | — |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At DePaul University, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.