English Language and Literature at Whittier College

Whittier's English program beats California's median by just $568 despite carrying nearly $7,000 more in debt than the typical CA English program. That 60th percentile state ranking might sound respectable until you realize the state median sits at $25,749—barely above the poverty line for a single adult in California. Meanwhile, Chapman and Westmont graduates in this same major earn over $12,000 more annually.

The debt picture is manageable at $25,000, roughly equivalent to one year's earnings, but those earnings themselves are deeply concerning. First-year graduates earn $26,317, and rather than climbing as careers develop, incomes actually slip to $25,799 by year four. This downward trend suggests graduates may be cobbling together retail or service jobs rather than building careers that leverage their humanities training. The small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

For families considering this program, the question isn't whether the debt is crushing—it's whether these earnings provide enough economic foundation to live independently in California. At roughly $2,200 per month before taxes, graduates will struggle to cover basic expenses in most California communities, even with roommates. Unless your child has a clear graduate school plan or family financial support, this investment carries substantial risk.