Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics at Bridgewater State University

Similar Romance Languages programs in Massachusetts suggest first-year earnings around $40,400, which would place this degree slightly above the national median but far below what graduates from Holy Cross or Tufts typically see. The $28,300 in debt is substantial—worse than 95% of programs nationally—though peer programs in the state carry similar burdens. For a language degree at a regional state university, this debt load deserves serious scrutiny.

The 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio based on comparable programs means your child would owe roughly 70% of their first year's salary, making those early post-graduation years financially tight even under best-case scenarios. Language majors often pursue graduate school, teaching credentials, or international opportunities that may delay higher earnings, which makes this upfront debt particularly constraining. Bridgewater's 89% admission rate and modest test scores suggest the institution serves students who may already face financial headwinds.

If your child is genuinely passionate about Romance languages and has a clear career path—translation, education with additional credentials, international business roles—this could work, but they need to understand they're taking on debt comparable to elite private schools while likely earning considerably less. Push hard on whether this specific major is necessary or if they could explore languages through a double major or minor while pursuing something with clearer employment pathways.