English Language and Literature at University of Colorado Colorado Springs

UCCS English graduates earn notably more than their peers across Colorado and the nation, placing in the 75th percentile nationally—well above the typical $30K that English majors make elsewhere. At $34,627 in the first year, these graduates are essentially tied with Metropolitan State and CU Denver for the highest English program outcomes in Colorado, despite UCCS having a near-open admission policy compared to more selective state schools.

The debt load of $22,000 comes in below both state and national medians, creating a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio. However, the 3% earnings growth over four years means graduates see minimal salary progression after landing that first job. This stagnation isn't unusual for English degrees, but it does mean the initial $34K represents roughly what graduates should expect to earn mid-career as well.

For families worried about liberal arts degrees, this program demonstrates you can pursue English without drowning in debt while still accessing decent entry-level opportunities. The combination of low debt and above-average starting pay makes this one of the stronger English programs in the state, though families should understand they're paying for that first career launch rather than long-term earnings growth. If your student is passionate about English and planning to stay in Colorado, UCCS delivers competitive outcomes without requiring admission to a highly selective campus.