English Language and Literature at Youngstown State University

Youngstown State's English program shows encouraging earnings growth but starts from an extremely difficult position. That first-year salary of $22,831 ranks in just the 11th percentile nationally and 25th percentile among Ohio's 71 English programs—meaning nearly every comparable program delivers better immediate outcomes. The debt burden of $28,000 exceeds both state and national medians, creating a concerning ratio where graduates owe more than their first year's salary.

The good news is that earnings nearly double by year four, reaching $38,593. This growth pattern suggests graduates eventually find their footing, potentially moving from survival jobs into positions that utilize their degree. However, that four-year mark still trails programs like Wright State ($33,011) and Cincinnati ($30,946), where graduates start closer to where Youngstown students finish.

The small sample size here is critical—with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, a few outliers could dramatically skew these numbers either direction. If your child is considering this program, recognize they'd be facing several years of financial strain while earning below poverty-level wages, and that even the improved later earnings don't fully close the gap with stronger Ohio programs. Unless Youngstown offers specific resources or connections that compensate for these numbers, the financial picture suggests looking at alternatives within the state system.