Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for English

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$74,386

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

82%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,967

Avg. Net Price

Find Your Program

Explore Accredited Programs in This Field

Find accredited programs in this field accepting applicants.

✓ Accredited programs ✓ 100% free ✓ No obligation

When considering colleges that specialize in English and Literature, social mobility is a vital factor for many students and families. These schools not only offer rigorous academic programs but also help students improve their financial prospects after graduation. For instance, graduates from the University of Pennsylvania earn an impressive average of $111,371.

What sets these institutions apart is their ability to combine high graduation rates, manageable debt, and strong earnings potential for graduates. The data below highlights 50 colleges where students can find academic success and real opportunities for upward mobility. You'll see metrics like earnings, graduation rates, and net prices, which help illustrate how each school impacts its students' futures.

Take the University of Chicago and Columbia University, for example. While both schools have high graduation rates (95% and 96%, respectively), their earnings differ significantly. The University of Chicago graduates earn about $91,885, while Columbia graduates make $102,491. This difference in potential earnings might influence a student's decision, depending on their financial considerations and career goals.

Key Findings

University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $111,371 on average, the highest on the list.

Columbia University has a net price of $21,590, one of the higher costs in the top five.

Brown University students graduate with an average debt of $11,428, the lowest in the top schools.

The average graduation rate across all 50 schools is 80%, indicating strong program completion.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $74,386

Avg. graduation rate 82%

Avg. net price $22,967

Avg. median debt $17,944

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in English & Literature

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

Graduation97%

Earnings$111,371

Net Price$28,699

View full profile →

Brown University

Providence, RI

Graduation96%

Earnings$93,487

Net Price$25,184

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academic environment and a strong focus on critical thinking. With only 7,569 students, the intimate setting fosters close relationships between peers and faculty, which can enhance the learning experience and lead to lasting connections.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Philadelphia, this private nonprofit institution has a vibrant campus life and a wealth of resources that support a diverse student body, including 17% of students who receive Pell Grants.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University attracts students who value academic freedom and a flexible curriculum. This 96% graduation rate signals a supportive environment where students can thrive while exploring their interests. Set in charming Providence, Rhode Island, the campus culture promotes collaboration and creativity among its 7,226 students.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College is a small liberal arts college that prioritizes a personalized educational experience, with a graduation rate of 95%. With a tight-knit community of just 2,076 students in picturesque Williamstown, Massachusetts, students often find themselves engaged in collaborative learning and rich discussions.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, known for its commitment to women's education, has a solid graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $84,803 at the ten-year mark. This strong academic environment equips students with the skills and connections needed to thrive in their careers, all while being part of a close-knit community that supports female leadership and empowerment.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College stands out in New York City as a vibrant public institution serving over 16,000 students. With a diverse student body and a focus on accessibility, it provides a unique opportunity for those seeking a college experience in an urban setting while emphasizing inclusivity and community support.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $102,491 ten years after enrollment, Columbia University in the City of New York is an appealing choice for ambitious students. Located in one of the world's most vibrant cities, students have access to unparalleled cultural and professional opportunities that can enrich their college experience and career prospects alike.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University is a prestigious institution with a 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $100,533 a decade after graduation. Situated in New Haven, Connecticut, Yale's rich history and engaging campus life provide students with not just education but also a vibrant community that fosters intellectual and personal development.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Amherst College has a strong track record of helping students succeed. The small student body of 1,911 fosters a tight-knit community where personalized attention is the norm, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a supportive environment for their education.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#10

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College offers a distinctive liberal arts education with a graduation rate of 95% and median earnings of $82,735 ten years after graduation. Nestled in Brunswick, Maine, its intimate setting encourages strong relationships between students and faculty, enhancing both academic and personal growth in a supportive atmosphere.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#11

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College offers a welcoming environment for its 12,550 students, emphasizing a strong academic foundation in a culturally rich area of New York City. With a graduation rate of 56%, the college is working to improve its student outcomes while providing accessible education to diverse communities.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, located in Waterville, Maine, has a strong reputation for academic rigor and a commitment to the liberal arts. With a graduation rate of 89%, students here are often well-prepared to tackle their post-college careers in a variety of fields, benefiting from the college's emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, located in Haverford, PA, is celebrated for its commitment to academic excellence and a strong sense of community. With a graduation rate of 90% and median earnings of $79,966 ten years post-graduation, Haverford graduates find themselves well-positioned in the job market with a solid foundation.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#14

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

At Colgate University, nestled in the scenic village of Hamilton, NY, students experience a tight-knit community with a strong commitment to liberal arts education. With a graduation rate of 91%, it's clear that Colgate prioritizes student success, and the impressive median earnings of $85,139 a decade after graduation suggest that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#15

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College in Davidson, NC, is known for its rigorous academics and close relationships between students and faculty. The college maintains a graduation rate of 91%, and with median earnings of $81,400 ten years after graduation, students leave equipped for professional success and personal growth.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#16

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its rich history and strong academic programs. With a graduation rate of 90% and median earnings at 10 years post-graduation reaching $73,490, students here are well-prepared for successful careers in their chosen fields.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#17

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania is a small, private liberal arts institution that prioritizes a rigorous academic environment. With a 93% graduation rate and impressive median earnings of $80,257 after ten years, it’s clear that students leave Swarthmore with valuable credentials and skills for the workforce.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#18

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

With a close-knit community of just over 1,100 students, the University of Virginia's College at Wise offers a personalized education environment that fosters strong connections between students and faculty. The school emphasizes academic support, making it easier for students to engage in their studies and develop their skills in a collaborative setting.

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College, located in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a vibrant women's college with a strong focus on empowering students through education. With a graduation rate of 89%, Smith fosters a close-knit community where students can engage deeply with their studies and each other, often resulting in lifelong friendships and networks.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx, NY, provides an affordable education option for a diverse and vibrant student body. With a graduation rate of 50%, students benefit from a range of programs aimed at enhancing their educational journey, while median earnings of $58,013 a decade after graduation suggest that many find pathways to economic stability.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a tight-knit community of 1,760 students, Bates College in Lewiston, Maine emphasizes a commitment to academic excellence and a liberal arts education. An impressive 90% of students graduate, and the median earnings a decade after graduation reach $69,498, reflecting the strong preparation students receive for their careers.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, located in Clinton, NY, offers an intimate liberal arts experience with only 2,030 students. The college's 91% graduation rate and impressive median earnings of $78,411 at ten years post-graduation suggest that its graduates are well-equipped to enter the workforce successfully, thanks in part to a strong emphasis on critical thinking and writing skills.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#23

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in New York City, Barnard College attracts students who are eager to engage with both rigorous academics and diverse cultural experiences. The college not only has a 93% graduation rate but also boasts impressive median earnings of $80,516 within ten years of graduation, illustrating the value of a Barnard diploma in the job market.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#24

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Middlebury College in Vermont reflects a strong commitment to student success. The college's emphasis on a liberal arts education encourages critical thinking and global awareness, fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#25

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, located in Easton, Pennsylvania, provides a strong liberal arts education with a focus on engineering and the sciences. With an 88% graduation rate and median earnings of $91,410 ten years after graduation, graduates are well-positioned for lucrative careers.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#26

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, is known for its rigorous academics and a strong sense of community. With a graduation rate of 90%, students here are provided with a rich educational experience that emphasizes collaboration and intellectual curiosity, often leading to high levels of student satisfaction and engagement.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#27

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

At Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa, students benefit from a personalized education in a supportive environment, leading to an 88% graduation rate. The college’s commitment to social responsibility and critical thinking attracts students who are eager to make a difference in the world through their studies and activism.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#28

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

Scripps College, located in the picturesque Claremont, CA, is known for its focus on women's education in a supportive environment. With an 85% graduation rate and median earnings of $77,539 after ten years, Scripps prepares its students to excel in their chosen fields while fostering strong community ties.

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

#29

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, cultivates a strong sense of community among its 3,067 students. The vibrant campus life and personalized education are supported by a median earning of $73,897 a decade after graduation, indicating that students are well-prepared for their careers.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#30

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

With a commitment to academic excellence, Truman State University in Kirksville, MO, has a graduation rate of 68%. This school fosters an environment where students can thrive, combining rigorous academics with a supportive community that encourages personal growth and engagement.

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

#31

Colorado College

Colorado Springs, CO · 2,014 students · Private nonprofit

18% accepted 87% graduate $65,222 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#32

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ, is a public institution known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With an impressive graduation rate of 86% and median earnings of $73,323 after ten years, TCNJ demonstrates its commitment to student success and career readiness, making it an appealing option for those seeking a solid return on their educational investment.

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

Trinity University

San Antonio, TX · 2,505 students · Private nonprofit

Located in San Antonio, Texas, Trinity University combines a beautiful campus with a commitment to academic excellence. The 83% graduation rate reflects a supportive community that encourages student engagement and personal growth, making it an attractive option for those looking to make the most of their college experience.

26% accepted 83% graduate $71,668 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#34

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Located in Lexington, Virginia, the Virginia Military Institute is known for its disciplined approach to education, catering to approximately 1,527 students. With a graduation rate of 79%, the institute emphasizes leadership and character development, making it a unique choice for those interested in military or public service careers.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#35

Kenyon College

Gambier, OH · 1,732 students · Private nonprofit

Kenyon College, located in the tranquil village of Gambier, Ohio, is known for its strong writing program and commitment to the liberal arts. With an impressive graduation rate of 84%, students thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment that encourages creativity and critical thinking, preparing them for a variety of career paths.

31% accepted 84% graduate $71,830 earnings

Kenyon's full profile

#36

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Worcester, Massachusetts, College of the Holy Cross is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. With an impressive 88% graduation rate, it cultivates an environment where students are encouraged to excel and engage deeply with their studies and peers.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#37

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr, PA · 1,359 students · Private nonprofit

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA · 13,544 students · Public

With a vibrant student population of over 13,500, Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA, creates a close-knit community that encourages collaboration and engagement. The school’s location offers stunning views of nature, as well as a rich cultural scene, making it a unique place to study and grow. The graduation rate sits at 65%, which reflects a supportive environment where students are likely to thrive academically and socially.

93% accepted 65% graduate $62,569 earnings

Western's full profile

#40

University of Richmond

University of Richmond, VA · 2,980 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Virginia, the University of Richmond is a private institution known for its strong commitment to student success, reflected in its 86% graduation rate. With a focus on liberal arts education and a tight-knit community, students here benefit from a rich array of resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#41

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

Nestled in picturesque Geneseo, SUNY College at Geneseo boasts a strong academic reputation, with a graduation rate of 72%. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to think critically and engage deeply with their studies, preparing them for a variety of career paths in an ever-evolving job market.

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, VA · 3,566 students · Public

Sitting in the historic town of Fredericksburg, VA, the University of Mary Washington serves a smaller student body of about 3,500, fostering personal connections between students and faculty. This intimate setting can lead to a more engaged learning experience, as evidenced by a graduation rate of 67%. The campus also encourages a strong sense of community, where students can form lasting friendships and professional networks.

80% accepted 67% graduate $60,613 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

Nestled in Rohnert Park, CA, Sonoma State University offers a blend of a laid-back atmosphere and a strong academic foundation, attracting students who appreciate both learning and the outdoors. With a graduation rate of 59%, the school emphasizes a personalized education experience, encouraging close interactions with faculty and peers.

93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings

Sonoma's full profile

#44

Pacific Lutheran University

Tacoma, WA · 2,401 students · Private nonprofit

78% accepted 70% graduate $66,990 earnings

Pacific's full profile

#45

Skidmore College

Saratoga Springs, NY · 2,694 students · Private nonprofit

Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, NY, has a unique charm that draws in students from various backgrounds. With a graduation rate of 82% and median earnings of $69,363 after ten years, the school cultivates an environment where creativity and academic rigor intersect, preparing students for diverse career paths that require both innovation and analytical skills.

21% accepted 82% graduate $69,363 earnings

Skidmore's full profile

#46

Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo, MI · 1,149 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 79% graduate $65,590 earnings

Kalamazoo's full profile

#47

University of Iowa

Iowa City, IA · 22,264 students · Public

84% accepted 74% graduate $64,762 earnings

University's full profile

#48

The University of the South

Sewanee, TN · 1,607 students · Private nonprofit

57% accepted 81% graduate $64,911 earnings

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 85%, Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA is a strong choice for students seeking a solid liberal arts education. The median earnings for graduates after ten years is an impressive $76,124, indicating that the school effectively prepares its students for successful careers, especially in fields that value critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#50

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA · 17,514 students · Public

90% accepted 45% graduate $54,914 earnings

A closer look at the data reveals a noteworthy trend between schools. The University of Pennsylvania stands out with an average earning potential of $111,371, significantly higher than Williams College, where graduates earn $88,665. This disparity illustrates how some institutions can open doors to higher-paying careers, making a substantial difference in a graduate's financial trajectory.

Now that you've reviewed these 50 colleges, consider how to align this data with your personal priorities. Think about factors like location, campus culture, and financial circumstances. For instance, if lower debt is a priority, Brown could be appealing with its average debt of $11,428, while you might need to weigh the higher costs at Columbia against its earning potential.

Ultimately, the choices we make about college can shape our future. With an average earning potential of $74,317 across these schools, the right decision can lead to a stable and fulfilling life. One family's choice of a school with strong social mobility might not only change their academic path but also their financial circumstances for generations.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

Related Rankings

All Rankings Methodology Best Colleges Social Mobility Highest Mobility