Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Stephen F Austin State University

Stephen F. Austin's writing program launches graduates into a notably weaker starting position than similar programs across Texas. At $25,292 in the first year, earnings land in just the 10th percentile statewide—meaning 90% of Texas writing programs produce better initial outcomes. Compare this to UT Austin ($38,713) or even Texas State ($37,548), and the gap becomes substantial: graduates here start roughly $12,000-13,000 behind their in-state peers annually.

The program does keep debt manageable at $21,726, below both state and national medians, which helps offset some concern. Earnings show modest growth to $27,942 by year four, but that still leaves graduates trailing far behind the Texas median of $37,883. For a parent considering multiple Texas options, that persistent earnings gap compounds over time—potentially representing $40,000+ in lost income over just four years compared to stronger state programs.

The small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift with more data, but the 10th percentile ranking suggests a genuine pattern rather than statistical noise. If your student is committed to writing studies and wants to stay in Texas, exploring programs at Texas Tech, UT Austin, or even Texas State would likely deliver significantly stronger financial returns on a similar educational investment.