English Language and Literature at Auburn University

Auburn University's English program outperforms most comparable programs, ranking in the 68th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Alabama—meaningful advantages in a field where earnings vary widely. Starting at $33,213, graduates see their income jump 32% to $43,708 within four years, a faster trajectory than typical for humanities degrees. The $25,000 median debt translates to a manageable 0.75 ratio against first-year earnings, though those initial years do require budgeting discipline on an entry-level salary.

The real question is growth potential. While Auburn English grads can't match the $40,000+ starting salaries at Athens State or South Alabama, they're gaining ground quickly in years two through four. This suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into careers that value their skills—whether that's marketing, communications, nonprofit management, or graduate school preparation. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these numbers.

For families comfortable with Alabama's in-state tuition and a student genuinely committed to English, Auburn offers a relatively strong version of this degree. Just understand that even with above-average performance, this remains a field where financial comfort builds gradually rather than immediately after graduation.