Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics at Marian University

Wisconsin's Romance language programs cluster tightly around $37,000 in first-year earnings, and Marian's estimated outcomes align with this state benchmark. While top programs in the state—like UW-Green Bay and UW-Whitewater—report first-year earnings above $41,000, most graduates in this field start in the mid-to-high $30,000s whether they attended a public university or private college like Marian. The estimated $25,490 in debt sits slightly above the state median of $24,050 but remains manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69.

The practical challenge here isn't unique to Marian—it's inherent to the field. Starting at $37,000 means monthly loan payments will consume a noticeable portion of take-home pay, particularly if your child doesn't pursue graduate school or pivot into a higher-paying career track. Romance language degrees often serve as launching pads for teaching, translation, international business, or graduate study in law or education, where the real earnings potential emerges later. If your child is planning to work immediately after graduation in language-related roles, the modest starting salary requires careful financial planning.

Consider whether your child has a clear post-graduation plan that justifies the investment. If they're passionate about languages but uncertain about career direction, exploring double majors or minors in business, education, or communications could strengthen their immediate job prospects without abandoning their academic interests.