English Language and Literature at University of South Florida

USF's English program outperforms most Florida alternatives, placing in the 60th percentile statewide—ahead of larger names like FSU and FIU. Starting earnings of $30,696 exceed both the state median ($26,917) and national median ($29,967), though debt levels run higher than typical for Florida English programs. The 15% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates find traction in the job market, even if absolute salaries remain modest.

The real question is whether a 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio works for your family. That $20,500 in loans translates to roughly manageable monthly payments, but first-year earnings barely crack $30,000. Many English majors pursue graduate degrees or enter fields like teaching, publishing, or communications where early compensation stays flat before potentially accelerating. If your student plans additional schooling, that debt compounds. If they're aiming for immediate career entry, the trajectory here shows steady but unspectacular progress.

For Florida families, USF represents a solid middle option—not the absolute top earner (UCF edges it out), but reliably above average with strong sample size backing these numbers. The program won't fast-track anyone to financial independence, but it performs better than two-thirds of in-state peers while keeping debt below the national norm for English degrees.