Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at The University of Texas at Austin

UT Austin's rhetoric and writing program earns graduates nearly double the national median for this field—$38,713 versus $28,418—yet costs less in debt than average. That's a formula that makes this program stand out nationally, even if it doesn't lead the pack within Texas itself. The 91st percentile national ranking reflects strong outcomes relative to the broader landscape, though among Texas schools specifically, it sits closer to the middle (60th percentile), trailing campuses like University of North Texas by about $6,000 in first-year earnings.

The real story here is trajectory and affordability. Earnings jump 42% by year four to reach $55,146, and the $21,323 debt load means graduates owe just over half their first-year salary—a manageable ratio for a humanities degree. UT Austin's academic reputation appears to translate into better employment outcomes than most writing programs nationally, even if entry-level pay doesn't initially distinguish it from other Texas public universities.

For families weighing this path, the combination matters more than any single number. Your graduate will earn substantially more than the typical writing studies major nationwide, carry reasonable debt, and see meaningful salary progression. If your student is committed to this field, UT Austin delivers solid value—just don't expect the salary premium that comes with some of the university's other programs.