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 Virginia

English Language and Literature bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (39 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Bridgewater College$41,040
William & Mary$40,697$51,194$19,5000.48
Longwood University$40,167$43,340$26,5000.66
University of Virginia-Main Campus$40,092$54,107$15,0000.37
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University$39,155$48,910$21,6250.55
University of Richmond$38,333$34,036$22,9800.60
National Median$29,967$24,5290.82

Other English Language and Literature Programs in Virginia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Virginia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
William & Mary
Williamsburg
$25,040$40,697$19,500
Longwood University
Farmville
$15,200$40,167$26,500
University of Virginia-Main Campus
Charlottesville
$20,986$40,092$15,000
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg
$15,478$39,155$21,625
University of Richmond
University of Richmond
$62,600$38,333$22,980

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 Bridgewater College, approximately 29% 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.