English Language and Literature at Fordham University

Fordham's English program presents a classic liberal arts dilemma: a tough first year financially, but strong long-term momentum. That $26,652 starting salary ranks below both the national and state medians for English majors, landing in just the 29th percentile nationally and 40th within New York. For context, English grads at nearby Barnard start at $40,414, and even the state median is $28,290. That initial earnings gap, combined with $27,000 in debt, means the first couple years post-graduation will likely require financial support or careful budgeting.

The more promising story emerges by year four, when median earnings nearly double to $51,721—a 94% jump that dramatically outpaces typical English major trajectories. This suggests Fordham grads who stick it out in competitive New York markets eventually break through, likely leveraging the university's alumni network and proximity to publishing, media, and corporate communications roles. The relatively low debt burden (5th percentile nationally) helps make that early lean period more manageable than at many peer institutions.

For parents considering this program, the question is whether your family can weather those first few years. If your child needs immediate financial independence after graduation or will struggle under entry-level New York living costs while carrying debt, this trajectory could create stress. But if you can provide a runway while they build experience, Fordham's combination of manageable debt and strong mid-term earnings growth becomes more compelling—just understand you're investing in a delayed payoff rather than immediate returns.