Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies at Weber State University
Bachelor's Degree
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
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Weber State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Weber State University graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 81th percentile of all rhetoric and composition/writing studies bachelors 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 Utah
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weber State University | $36,205 | $40,671 | $21,398 | 0.59 |
| University of Utah | $47,950 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $28,418 | — | $25,000 | 0.88 |
Other Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies Programs in Utah
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Utah schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Utah Salt Lake City | $9,315 | $47,950 | — |
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.