English Language and Literature at Ohio State University-Mansfield Campus

Ohio State-Mansfield's English program shows exactly what parents worry about—that $29,600 starting salary—but the four-year trajectory tells a different story. Graduates see their earnings jump 36% to over $40,000, suggesting they're finding their footing in the job market or transitioning into better positions. Among Ohio's 71 English programs, this one lands in the 60th percentile for earnings, outperforming the state median of $27,355 while keeping debt slightly below the state average.

The $23,500 debt load translates to a manageable 0.79 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe less than one year's starting salary. That's reasonable for a humanities degree, especially compared to programs that leave students with ratios above 1.0. The challenge is that first year—$29,600 won't go far in monthly loan payments and living expenses—but the growth curve suggests graduates aren't stuck there.

For families weighing this program, the key question is whether your student has a plan for that first year or two. The data shows improvement comes, but it requires patience. If they're committed to teaching, publishing, communications, or another field where English degrees provide entry, this program delivers better-than-average Ohio outcomes without overwhelming debt. Just budget conservatively for those early years.