English Language and Literature at University of New Hampshire at Manchester

UNH Manchester's English program lands graduates at exactly the national 75th percentile for earnings—meaning they're outperforming three-quarters of English programs nationwide. That $34,563 starting salary beats the national median by nearly $5,000, while the debt load of $26,697 comes in significantly below typical borrowing levels. The 0.77 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than their first year's salary, a manageable position that puts them ahead of most liberal arts graduates.

Within New Hampshire, the picture is more competitive. This program ties with UNH's main campus and ranks in the middle of the state's English offerings, trailing Dartmouth and Keene State but beating Southern New Hampshire. What matters more is the trajectory: earnings jump 25% by year four to $43,214, suggesting graduates successfully navigate the early-career challenge that often faces humanities majors. With 32% of students on Pell grants, the school serves a meaningful proportion of first-generation and lower-income students who can leverage the credential without crushing debt.

For parents worried about the "English major stigma," this program delivers tangible evidence of value—competitive earnings, controlled debt, and solid growth. It won't match engineering or nursing salaries, but it provides a credible economic foundation while your student pursues the critical thinking and communication skills that English develops.