English Language and Literature at Gettysburg College

Gettysburg's English program lands graduates among the highest earners in the country for this major—hitting $40,601 in the first year puts them in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile within Pennsylvania. That's remarkable for a humanities degree that typically starts around $30,000. The debt load of $26,724 is actually lower than the state median, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 that few English programs can match. Four years out, these graduates see solid growth to $54,100, suggesting the liberal arts foundation translates into career advancement.

The comparison within Pennsylvania is telling: Gettysburg essentially ties with Penn and Lebanon Valley for the strongest English program outcomes in the state, despite lower tuition than Penn. Among 76 Pennsylvania programs, most cluster in the low $30,000s for starting pay, making Gettysburg's premium positioning clear. This isn't just selective admissions lifting outcomes—the college's 48% acceptance rate is accessible compared to true elite schools, yet the career results compete with them.

For parents worried about an English major's practicality, this data offers reassurance. The combination of strong starting earnings, manageable debt, and continued salary growth suggests Gettysburg's network, reputation, and career services deliver genuine value. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) is enough to trust these numbers, though individual outcomes will naturally vary based on career path and geography.