English Language and Literature at Columbia University in the City of New York

Columbia's English program produces graduates who earn substantially more than typical English majors—$35,838 in year one jumps to $58,459 by year four, a 63% increase that outpaces most humanities programs. Among New York's 83 English programs, Columbia ranks in the 80th percentile for earnings, though notably behind Colgate ($48,008 year-one earnings) and Barnard ($40,414). The $25,500 median debt sits just slightly above state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 that's manageable compared to many bachelor's programs.

The key question is whether those stronger-than-average outcomes justify Columbia's highly selective admissions (4% acceptance rate, 1547 average SAT). The first-year earnings of $35,838 are solid for an English degree but modest in absolute terms, particularly given Columbia's prestige and the cost of living in New York City. However, the trajectory matters: graduates who stick with fields where an English degree applies see meaningful earnings growth, suggesting the Columbia network and credential open doors over time.

For families weighing this investment, understand that English majors rarely command high starting salaries regardless of institution. Columbia delivers better outcomes than most programs, but you're still looking at relatively modest early earnings. The payoff comes in career progression and the versatility of skills developed—if your child is committed to fields where strong writing and analytical thinking matter, this program performs well within its category.