English Language and Literature at University of Phoenix-Arizona

University of Phoenix's online English degree earns significantly more than most English programs nationally—$38,163 ranks in the 91st percentile—but that advantage comes at a steep cost. With $45,880 in median debt (more than double the national median for English programs), graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.20. That's manageable compared to many degrees, but concerning given that earnings actually decline slightly over four years to $37,213, suggesting graduates may be plateauing early in careers that typically build slowly.

The Arizona comparison reveals the real issue: this program costs nearly twice what in-state alternatives charge while delivering middle-of-the-pack results. Arizona State's English programs charge around $25,000 in debt while producing identical earnings of $33,615. Even accounting for Phoenix's slightly higher first-year earnings advantage, you're paying an extra $20,000+ for what amounts to a $4,500 annual income bump that doesn't appear sustainable.

For a student who needs the flexibility of online education and has no access to traditional universities, this program delivers functional outcomes—45% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting it serves working adults who value accessibility. But for a traditional student choosing between this and Arizona's public universities, the math doesn't work. The premium tuition buys convenience, not better career outcomes, making this a defensible choice only when geography or scheduling makes campus programs impossible.