English Language and Literature at Kent State University at Geauga

Kent State Geauga's English program starts graduates at just $22,300—well below both the state median of $27,400 and the national average of $30,000. That first-year figure ranks in the bottom 5% nationally and bottom quarter within Ohio, trailing nearby options like Wright State ($33,000) and University of Cincinnati ($31,000) by substantial margins. The moderate $26,000 debt load equals the state median, but when paired with such low initial earnings, it creates a debt-to-income ratio of 1.16 that many financial advisors would flag as concerning.

The silver lining here is momentum: earnings jump 56% to nearly $35,000 by year four, ultimately reaching the national 75th percentile for English programs. This suggests graduates who persist through early-career challenges can achieve competitive outcomes. However, that rough first year matters significantly—it's when loan payments begin and when financial stress can derail young careers or force graduates into jobs outside their field.

For families considering this program, the question becomes whether your student can weather those lean initial years, likely with continued financial support. The pathway to solid mid-career earnings exists, but it requires patience and probably means living at home or accepting significant budget constraints early on. If minimizing immediate post-graduation financial strain is a priority, stronger-launching English programs within Ohio offer more breathing room from day one.