English Language and Literature at Williams College

Williams College English graduates earn nearly double the national median for their major—a remarkable outcome that places this program among the top 5% nationally. More impressively, they achieve this with just $13,125 in median debt, roughly half what typical English majors borrow. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 means graduates owe about three months' salary, making this one of the most financially accessible elite programs available.

The Williams advantage extends beyond the immediate post-graduation period. Four-year earnings of $56,571 show 15% growth and tie with Northeastern's professional programs for highest in Massachusetts. Among Bay State English programs, Williams ranks in the 80th percentile—notable given that Massachusetts hosts some of the nation's strongest liberal arts colleges. The $49,340 starting salary substantially outpaces even prestigious peers like Amherst ($41,979) and Holy Cross ($43,362).

For families who can navigate Williams' 10% admission rate, this represents an English degree that functions financially more like a business or STEM credential. The combination of elite earning power and minimal debt burden is virtually unmatched in humanities education. Yes, it's highly selective, but for admitted students, the English program delivers tangible return on investment that defies conventional wisdom about liberal arts economics.