English Language and Literature at University of Virginia-Main Campus

UVA's English program demonstrates that prestige can translate into tangible financial outcomes. With first-year earnings of $40,092—ranking in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th within Virginia—graduates enter the workforce earning 34% more than the typical English major nationwide. Among Virginia's 39 English programs, UVA edges out even William & Mary for the highest early earnings, while graduates leave with just $15,000 in debt compared to the state median of $23,485.

The 35% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates find opportunities for advancement, with median salaries reaching $54,107. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 means students typically owe less than five months of their first-year salary—a manageable burden that makes this one of the stronger financial propositions in the humanities. The program's moderate sample size provides reliable data without red flags.

For families worried that an English degree means financial struggle, UVA offers a counterexample. The combination of strong institutional reputation, minimal debt load, and above-average starting salaries creates a viable path for students passionate about literature and writing. This isn't about choosing practicality over passion—it's about finding a program where both can coexist.