Analysis
Ohio State-Lima's English program demonstrates something relatively rare: meaningful income growth after graduation. Starting earnings of $29,605 jump to over $40,000 by year four—a 36% increase that suggests graduates are finding their footing in the job market rather than plateauing early. Among Ohio's 71 English programs, this one sits in the 60th percentile for earnings, outperforming the state median of $27,355. That's a modest but real advantage in a field where regional differences matter more than national comparisons.
The debt picture is reasonable at $23,500, slightly lower than both state and national averages for English majors. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.79 means graduates owe less than a year's starting salary—manageable territory, especially given the strong earnings trajectory. With 31% of students receiving Pell grants, this campus serves a significant number of lower-income students who are achieving outcomes comparable to or better than peers at other Ohio institutions.
The practical consideration: your child won't command impressive starting pay, but the growth curve suggests this program equips graduates with skills that become more valuable with experience. For a family looking at Ohio State's brand recognition combined with regional campus affordability, this represents a solid middle-of-the-pack option in a notoriously challenging major.
Where Ohio State University-Lima Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all english language and literature bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Ohio State University-Lima Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State University-Lima Campus | $29,605 | $40,281 | +36% |
| Xavier University | $25,683 | $48,723 | +90% |
| University of Dayton | $30,063 | $46,560 | +55% |
| Miami University-Hamilton | $27,356 | $44,638 | +63% |
| Miami University-Middletown | $27,356 | $44,638 | +63% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
English Language and Literature bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (71 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,212 | $29,605 | $40,281 | $23,500 | 0.79 | |
| $11,188 | $33,011 | $34,569 | $24,140 | 0.73 | |
| $7,504 | $33,011 | $34,569 | $24,140 | 0.73 | |
| $13,570 | $30,946 | — | $22,625 | 0.73 | |
| $59,550 | $30,746 | $32,067 | $26,717 | 0.87 | |
| $47,600 | $30,063 | $46,560 | $24,398 | 0.81 | |
| National Median | — | $29,967 | — | $24,529 | 0.82 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with english language and literature 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 Ohio State University-Lima Campus, approximately 31% 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 210 graduates with reported earnings and 227 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.