Analysis
Weber State's writing program significantly outperforms national benchmarks—graduates earn 27% more than the typical writing studies grad nationwide—but here's the catch: they're still trailing the state median by about $5,800 annually. With only three Utah schools offering this degree, that gap matters. The University of Utah's program commands nearly $12,000 more in first-year earnings, suggesting Utah employers may pay premium rates for specific credentials in this field.
The financial fundamentals work in your favor. At $21,398 in debt versus $36,205 in first-year earnings, graduates face a manageable 0.59 debt-to-income ratio—better than many humanities programs. Earnings climb to $40,671 by year four, showing reasonable career momentum. This isn't the path to rapid wealth accumulation, but the debt burden won't become crushing either.
The major caveat: we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates here, so individual outcomes could vary substantially from these medians. If your child is set on writing studies and considering Utah schools, Weber State offers solid value at a lower debt level than the national norm. Just understand they'll likely start below what in-state competitors command, though the gap may narrow with experience.
Where Weber State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all rhetoric and composition/writing studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Weber State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weber State University | $36,205 | $40,671 | +12% |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion | $44,411 | $63,308 | +43% |
| Arizona State University Digital Immersion | $44,411 | $63,308 | +43% |
| Clemson University | $43,505 | $62,729 | +44% |
| The University of Texas at Austin | $38,713 | $55,146 | +42% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,391 | $36,205 | $40,671 | $21,398 | 0.59 | |
| $9,315 | $47,950 | — | — | — | |
| National Median | — | $28,418 | — | $25,000 | 0.88 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with rhetoric and composition/writing studies graduates
Technical Writers
English Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary
Editors
Writers and Authors
Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
Proofreaders and Copy Markers
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 Weber State University, approximately 16% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 28 graduates with reported earnings and 32 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.