English Language and Literature at Georgian Court University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Georgian Court University's English program delivers surprisingly strong outcomes that defy stereotypes about humanities degrees. Starting salaries of $45,000 place graduates at the 95th percentile nationally—exceeding the national median by 50%—and in the 80th percentile among New Jersey programs. That initial advantage grows over time, with earnings climbing to nearly $55,000 by year four, outpacing most in-state alternatives except Monmouth and Seton Hall.
The $26,000 debt load sits right at the national median for English programs, resulting in a manageable 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio. Your child would owe less than seven months of their first-year salary—a reasonable trade for a degree from a school that consistently places graduates ahead of the pack. The 22% earnings growth trajectory suggests graduates are finding professional-track positions, not just entry-level retail jobs.
For families comparing New Jersey options, Georgian Court punches above its 71% admission rate. Only Monmouth and Seton Hall deliver better starting salaries, and you'll likely pay a premium for those names. If your child is genuinely interested in English and you're concerned about job prospects, this program offers concrete evidence that humanities degrees can lead to solid middle-class earnings when the school has strong employer connections.
Where Georgian Court University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all english language and literature bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Georgian Court University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Georgian Court University graduates earn $45k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all english language and literature bachelors programs nationally.
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 New Jersey
English Language and Literature bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (25 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgian Court University | $44,982 | $54,818 | $26,000 | 0.58 |
| Monmouth University | $50,737 | $52,920 | $27,000 | 0.53 |
| Seton Hall University | $48,368 | $49,473 | $25,139 | 0.52 |
| Rowan University | $37,815 | $48,445 | $26,554 | 0.70 |
| New Jersey City University | $37,244 | $43,561 | $26,980 | 0.72 |
| Kean University | $36,257 | $44,212 | $30,679 | 0.85 |
| National Median | $29,967 | — | $24,529 | 0.82 |
Other English Language and Literature Programs in New Jersey
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monmouth University West Long Branch | $44,850 | $50,737 | $27,000 |
| Seton Hall University South Orange | $51,370 | $48,368 | $25,139 |
| Rowan University Glassboro | $15,700 | $37,815 | $26,554 |
| New Jersey City University Jersey City | $13,971 | $37,244 | $26,980 |
| Kean University Union | $13,426 | $36,257 | $30,679 |
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 Georgian Court University, approximately 30% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 37 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.