Analysis
Romance Languages graduates at Utah Valley University borrow about $3,500 more than their peers at other Utah programs in the same field, though debt still remains below the national median. Based on comparable programs in Utah, first-year earnings hover around $35,000โa figure that aligns closely with national outcomes for this major but sits notably below what graduates from the University of Utah and BYU earn in the same field.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 means graduates face roughly seven months of first-year income in debt, which is manageable compared to many majors. However, the estimated $35,000 starting salary reflects the broader reality of humanities degrees: these programs rarely command high early-career earnings, regardless of where you study. The gap between UVU's comparable programs and the state's top performers (UofU grads earn an estimated $10,000 more) suggests institutional reputation matters significantly in this field, likely affecting which doors open for internships, graduate programs, and early-career positions.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether a Romance Languages degree serves as preparation for a specific graduate program or career path that requires it. Without that clear next step, you're looking at below-average starting earnings with above-state-average debt. The estimated figures suggest outcomes similar to the national median, which means modest early returns on a moderate debt load.
Where Utah Valley University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all romance languages, literatures, and linguistics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,270 | $35,122* | โ | $20,250 | โ | |
| $9,315 | $45,868* | $49,166 | โ | โ | |
| $6,496 | $40,002* | $61,951 | $13,219 | 0.33 | |
| $9,228 | $30,242* | $57,396 | $20,500 | 0.68 | |
| $6,391 | $27,989* | $56,633 | $12,000 | 0.43 | |
| National Median | โ | $34,497* | โ | $22,722 | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with romance languages, literatures, and linguistics graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Utah Valley University, approximately 23% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in UT. Actual outcomes may vary.