Linguistic, Comparative, at Wichita State University

With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, this linguistics program's data offers only a rough sketch, but the picture isn't particularly encouraging. Graduates earn $27,284 in their first year—essentially matching both the national median and Kansas median for this field. The debt load of $17,750 is at least more manageable than typical linguistics programs, landing in the 75th percentile nationally (meaning 75% of comparable programs leave students with less debt). Still, that's a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65, requiring nearly eight months of gross income to repay.

The real concern is trajectory. Linguistics degrees often lead to graduate school or careers where earnings build over time—teaching, translation, academia. First-year earnings hovering around $27K suggest many graduates are in entry-level positions or continuing their education. At an institution with a 95% admission rate serving a significant population of Pell grant recipients, students here may not have the financial cushion to pursue unpaid internships or additional degrees that could boost earnings.

For families counting on immediate returns, this data—limited as it is—suggests caution. The small sample size means next year's cohort could look entirely different, but right now, you're looking at modest earnings and debt that, while not catastrophic, will take discipline to manage. If your student is passionate about linguistics and has a clear career plan (or graduate school funding lined up), proceed carefully. If they're exploring majors without strong conviction, programs with clearer employment pathways deserve consideration.