English Language and Literature at University of Missouri-Columbia

Mizzou's English program outperforms most Missouri alternatives and holds its own nationally—a reassuring position for a humanities degree. Graduates earn $36,695 four years out, placing them in the 60th percentile among Missouri English programs and slightly above the national median. While Saint Louis University tops the state at $33,893, that figure comes just one year after graduation; Mizzou's four-year number suggests stronger long-term trajectory. The 20% earnings growth from year one to year four indicates graduates are finding their footing professionally, even if starting salaries feel modest.

The debt picture is reasonable for an English degree. At $23,182, graduates owe less than both state and national medians, and the 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio means first-year debt equals about nine months of salary—manageable if graduates stay employed. This isn't a program that will generate immediate financial returns, but it's not saddling students with crushing debt either.

The real question is whether your child has a clear plan for an English degree. Mizzou provides a solid foundation at a fair price, but the moderate starting salary means graduates need intentionality about their career path. Those headed toward teaching, communications, or graduate school should find this program workable. For students still exploring or hoping an English degree alone will open doors, the earnings numbers suggest they'll need to be strategic about internships and networking to maximize the investment.