Analysis
Comparable Romance Languages programs in North Carolina suggest first-year earnings around $35,000—roughly matching the national median for language majors—but the estimated $25,490 in debt sits notably higher than what most NC programs produce (around $23,250). That puts the debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.72, meaning graduates would owe about three-quarters of their first year's salary, which creates a tighter financial margin than you'd see at state universities offering similar programs.
The limitation here is that without actual graduate outcomes from Meredith, you're making assumptions based on how other language programs perform. The estimates suggest fairly typical earnings for the field—neither alarming nor impressive—but language majors generally face a longer career ramp-up period where early earnings don't tell the full story. The additional $2,000-$3,000 in debt compared to peer programs matters over a 10-year repayment timeline, especially on a $35,000 starting salary.
If your child is genuinely passionate about language study and has a clear plan for leveraging the degree (teaching certification, translation work, international business roles), the estimated debt level is manageable but leaves little room for error. However, the lack of actual data means you're essentially trusting that Meredith's outcomes mirror the state average rather than knowing for certain. Compare the net price calculator results against NC public universities before committing.
Where Meredith College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all romance languages, literatures, and linguistics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (32 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,936 | $35,191* | — | $25,490* | — | |
| $4,532 | $36,179* | $40,330 | $23,250* | 0.64 | |
| $7,214 | $35,208* | $42,064 | $23,250* | 0.66 | |
| $7,593 | $35,191* | $35,624 | $23,029* | 0.65 | |
| $8,989 | $32,508* | $43,128 | $13,500* | 0.42 | |
| $7,317 | $25,426* | $42,495 | $23,751* | 0.93 | |
| National Median | — | $34,497* | — | $22,722* | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with romance languages, literatures, and linguistics graduates
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 Meredith College, approximately 33% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 5 similar programs in NC. Actual outcomes may vary.