English Language and Literature at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion's English program outperforms 82% of similar programs nationally in graduate earnings, yet you're paying above-average tuition for that edge. First-year graduates earn $36,054—well above the national median of $29,967—but still carry $28,676 in debt, roughly $4,000 more than the typical English major nationwide. That 0.80 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming, but it means your child starts with debt equal to 80% of their first year's salary, which will require disciplined budgeting.

The state context matters here. While ODU's English grads do well nationally, they rank in the 60th percentile among Virginia programs—solid middle-of-the-pack performance. Compare that to William & Mary grads earning $40,697 or UVA grads at $40,092, and you're looking at a $4,000-7,000 annual gap for potentially similar in-state tuition. The 21% earnings growth from year one to year four shows consistent career progression, which helps close that initial salary gap over time.

For families considering ODU's accessible 91% admission rate and substantial Pell grant population, this program delivers respectable returns for an English degree. Your child will likely outearn peers from most schools but won't match Virginia's elite public universities. If ODU offers a significantly better financial aid package than those top-tier options, the math could still work in your favor.