Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics at Skidmore College

Skidmore graduates with this degree earn $40,204 in their first year—a solid figure that ranks in the 77th percentile nationally and places them well above both the national median ($34,497) and the New York state median ($37,442) for Romance Languages programs. For families considering this highly selective liberal arts college (23% admission rate), these numbers suggest the Skidmore credential carries real weight in the job market, at least compared to most other Romance Languages programs across the country.

The estimated debt of $19,625—derived from similar programs at peer New York institutions—creates a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's notably better than the national median debt for this major ($22,722), meaning Skidmore students appear to be borrowing less than typical while earning more. However, parents should recognize there's considerable earnings variation even within New York: Columbia and Colgate graduates in this field start above $53,000, while Skidmore falls in the middle tier alongside schools like Fordham.

The key question is whether a Romance Languages degree from a selective school like Skidmore justifies the investment when only 14% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting higher family contribution expectations. The first-year earnings are respectable but not spectacular, and humanities graduates often see their career trajectories play out over many years rather than immediately after graduation. If your family can manage the debt load comfortably, this program positions graduates competitively within their field—just don't expect the immediate financial returns that some other majors deliver.