English Language and Literature at Moravian University

Moravian's English program starts graduates at $27,135—below both Pennsylvania's median of $30,095 and the national median of $29,967. While the $27,000 debt load matches the state median and ranks impressively low nationally (5th percentile), the combination still yields a 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio that makes the first few years financially tight. Among Pennsylvania's 76 English programs, this one lands at the 40th percentile for earnings, meaning graduates typically earn less than most comparable programs in the state.

The real concern here is the earnings gap with Pennsylvania's stronger programs. Top performers like Penn ($41K) and Gettysburg ($40.6K) start graduates at nearly 50% higher salaries, suggesting that institutional prestige or alumni networks play a significant role in English graduate outcomes. That's a considerable difference when you're managing student loan payments on a modest salary.

The caveat: this data represents fewer than 30 recent graduates, so outcomes could shift substantially year to year. However, the pattern of below-median earnings combined with average debt suggests this program delivers modest returns compared to alternatives. If your child is set on English at a Pennsylvania school, exploring options that have demonstrated stronger earning outcomes would be worth the effort—the salary differences compound quickly over a career.