Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Portland State University
Master's Degree
Earnings Distribution
How Portland State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Portland State University graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 50th 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 Oregon
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies masters's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (7 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portland State University | $41,170 | $44,418 | — | — |
| Pacific University | $49,513 | — | — | — |
| Oregon State University | $43,004 | $42,520 | — | — |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus | $43,004 | $42,520 | — | — |
| National Median | $41,249 | — | — | — |
Other Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies Programs in Oregon
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Oregon schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific University Forest Grove | $54,466 | $49,513 | — |
| Oregon State University Corvallis | $13,494 | $43,004 | — |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus Bend | $12,594 | $43,004 | — |
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 Portland State University, approximately 40% 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.