English Language and Literature at Western Michigan University
Bachelor's Degree
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
English Language and Literature bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (32 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western Michigan University | — | $39,200 | $28,350 | — |
| Grand Valley State University | $39,334 | $41,299 | $28,570 | 0.73 |
| Wayne State University | $35,549 | $27,648 | $27,000 | 0.76 |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $33,742 | $48,367 | $16,937 | 0.50 |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn | $32,758 | $45,159 | $31,000 | 0.95 |
| Oakland University | $31,746 | $43,138 | $25,990 | 0.82 |
| National Median | $29,967 | — | $24,529 | 0.82 |
Other English Language and Literature Programs in Michigan
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Valley State University Allendale | $14,628 | $39,334 | $28,570 |
| Wayne State University Detroit | $14,297 | $35,549 | $27,000 |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Ann Arbor | $17,228 | $33,742 | $16,937 |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn Dearborn | $14,944 | $32,758 | $31,000 |
| Oakland University Rochester Hills | $14,694 | $31,746 | $25,990 |
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 Western Michigan University, approximately 25% 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.