Linguistic, Comparative, at North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
NC State's linguistics program significantly outperforms its in-state peers, ranking in the 80th percentile among North Carolina programs with first-year earnings of $34,099. That's nearly $10,000 above the state median of $24,658, and it trails only East Carolina by about $1,400. Nationally, it lands in the 83rd percentile—beating three-quarters of similar programs with earnings 24% above the national median.
The $19,250 in typical debt sits below both state and national medians, creating a manageable 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio. For a humanities-oriented program where earnings often start modestly, first-year graduates here are earning enough to service their loans without severe financial strain. The combination of higher-than-average earnings and lower-than-average debt is particularly notable in a field where many programs saddle students with $20,000+ in debt for sub-$25,000 starting salaries.
If your child is committed to linguistics or comparative language studies, NC State offers one of the stronger options in the state, particularly at the in-state tuition rate you'd likely pay at a selective public university. The earnings advantage over most North Carolina alternatives is substantial and immediate.
Where North Carolina State University at Raleigh Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all linguistic, comparative, bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates compare to all programs nationally
North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates earn $34k, placing them in the 83th percentile of all linguistic, comparative, bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Linguistic, Comparative, bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (9 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina State University at Raleigh | $34,099 | — | $19,250 | 0.56 |
| East Carolina University | $35,561 | — | $25,560 | 0.72 |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | $24,658 | $42,774 | $17,775 | 0.72 |
| Appalachian State University | $24,657 | — | $23,342 | 0.95 |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | $24,058 | — | $26,414 | 1.10 |
| National Median | $27,449 | — | $20,718 | 0.75 |
Other Linguistic, Comparative, Programs in North Carolina
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across North Carolina schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Carolina University Greenville | $7,361 | $35,561 | $25,560 |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill | $8,989 | $24,658 | $17,775 |
| Appalachian State University Boone | $7,541 | $24,657 | $23,342 |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro Greensboro | $7,593 | $24,058 | $26,414 |
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 North Carolina State University at Raleigh, approximately 19% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 55 graduates with reported earnings and 70 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.