Analysis
Peer Romance Languages programs in Indiana produce first-year earnings around $37,500, putting this estimate for Wabash near the state median but below what graduates from Notre Dame ($46,030) and Butler ($43,678) report earning. The estimated debt of $26,885 is notably higher than Indiana's typical median of $21,700 for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72—manageable but not comfortable territory for a humanities degree.
The small-college premium that often justifies higher borrowing doesn't seem to materialize here in earnings, at least based on what similar programs produce. While Wabash's liberal arts environment may offer valuable connections and preparation that don't immediately translate to salary, parents should weigh that against the concrete debt burden. The estimated earnings also trail what you'd see at comparable Indiana schools like DePauw ($43,049), where Romance Languages graduates report significantly stronger first-year outcomes.
For families considering this path: the debt load is moderate but meaningful for entry-level humanities earnings. If language study is the goal, compare actual outcomes at Indiana schools that report data—several offer better debt-to-earnings pictures. The inherent uncertainty here, given we're working from peer program estimates rather than Wabash's actual graduate outcomes, argues for having frank conversations about career plans and whether the investment pencils out for your specific situation.
Where Wabash College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all romance languages, literatures, and linguistics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (29 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Wabash CollegeCrawfordsville | $49,125 | $37,553* | — | $26,885* | — |
 University of Notre DameNotre Dame | $62,693 | $46,030* | $65,050 | $19,250* | 0.42 |
 Butler UniversityIndianapolis | $45,980 | $43,678* | $53,606 | $26,870* | 0.62 |
 DePauw UniversityGreencastle | $57,070 | $43,049* | — | $27,000* | 0.63 |
 Ball State UniversityMuncie | $10,758 | $37,553* | $38,527 | $21,702* | 0.58 |
 Indiana University-BloomingtonBloomington | $11,790 | $33,307* | $48,375 | $14,000* | 0.42 |
| National Median | — | $34,497* | — | $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 Wabash College, 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 7 similar programs in IN. Actual outcomes may vary.