English Language and Literature at Kent State University at Ashtabula

Kent State Ashtabula's English program starts graduates at just $22,318—among the lowest outcomes in the country for this major, landing in the 5th percentile nationally. That first year is genuinely rough, with earnings barely above minimum wage full-time work. However, the trajectory tells a more complex story: by year four, graduates reach $34,698, essentially matching the national 75th percentile and surpassing most Ohio programs. That 56% earnings growth is notable and suggests graduates who stick it out find better opportunities over time.

The $26,000 debt load is right at Ohio's median for English programs and relatively manageable given the eventual earnings. The real question is whether families can weather those first few years—this isn't a program where graduates immediately land stable positions. With 34% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here may not have the financial cushion to support a child through that initial low-earning period.

If your child has a clear plan for what they'll do with an English degree and can afford to start slowly (perhaps living at home initially), the four-year earnings become respectable. But this program offers no safety net for the first year or two after graduation. Families should have honest conversations about financial support during that vulnerable early career phase.