English Language and Literature at Brigham Young University-Idaho

BYU-Idaho's English program stands out for one crucial reason: graduates leave with just $14,000 in debt—roughly half the national median and dramatically below Idaho's $25,750 typical debt load. This places it in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability, a significant advantage given that starting salaries for English majors hover around $28,000 whether you attend here or elsewhere in Idaho.

The earnings trajectory tells a less encouraging story. At $28,000 in year one, graduates earn slightly below the national average, and four years later they're essentially in the same place—earnings barely budge to $28,600. Compare this to Idaho State's English grads who start at $31,400, and the performance gap becomes clearer despite this program ranking 60th percentile within the state. The minimal growth suggests graduates may struggle to advance beyond entry-level positions in education, publishing, or administrative roles.

For families prioritizing minimal debt over income potential, this program delivers—the low debt burden means manageable monthly payments even on a modest salary. However, parents should understand that $28,000 goes further in Rexburg than Seattle, and their child may need graduate education or career pivoting to substantially increase earnings. The value here isn't in the salary; it's in avoiding the debt trap that makes many humanities degrees financially punishing.