English Language and Literature at Portland State University

Portland State's English program starts graduates at $27,819—below both state and national medians—but the story improves considerably over time. Four years out, earnings climb to $37,537, representing 35% growth that outpaces typical trajectories for English degrees. With debt at $24,546 (slightly above Oregon's median of $23,667), the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.88 means graduates owe less than one year's starting salary, which is manageable territory.

Among Oregon's 17 English programs, Portland State lands squarely in the middle, trailing top programs like Willamette ($32,863) and Oregon State ($29,154) but performing comparably to several private competitors. The 40th percentile state ranking reflects this positioning—not remarkable, but solidly average for the state. The program serves a predominantly accessible student body (91% admission rate, 40% Pell recipients), and the earnings growth suggests graduates find their footing in the job market after an initially slow start.

The practical calculation: your child faces a modest first year financially, likely needing parental support or supplemental income, but the upward trajectory is encouraging. This works better for students with family resources to bridge that initial period or those planning graduate school where the degree serves as a foundation rather than a terminal credential. If immediate earning power matters most, other Portland State programs deliver stronger returns.