Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for English

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

Schools Analyzed

$95,858

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

89%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$28,755

Avg. Net Price

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When weighing options for studying English and Literature, it’s crucial to consider not just the curriculum but also the long-term financial outcomes. Graduates from top programs can earn an average of $96,500, a significant figure that reflects the potential return on investment for students.

The schools in this list are distinguished by their impressive graduate earnings, high completion rates, and manageable debt levels. The data highlights how these institutions prepare students for successful careers, ensuring they can navigate the challenges of student debt while still achieving strong financial outcomes.

Take the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University, for instance. Graduates from Penn earn $111,371, while those from Columbia earn $102,491. However, Columbia has a lower net price of $21,590 compared to Penn's $28,699, making it essential for students to weigh financial factors alongside potential earnings.

Key Findings

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

Columbia University has a lower net price of $21,590 compared to Penn's $28,699.

Yale graduates carry $12,975 in debt, significantly lower than Columbia's $21,500.

The average graduation rate for these top schools is 89%, indicating strong student support.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $95,858

Avg. graduation rate 89%

Avg. net price $28,755

Avg. median debt $18,898

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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 Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA

Graduation97%

Earnings$111,371

Net Price$28,699

View full profile →

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY

Graduation96%

Earnings$102,491

Net Price$21,590

View full profile →

Yale University

New Haven, CT

Graduation96%

Earnings$100,533

Net Price$23,777

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

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. This private nonprofit institution in Philadelphia not only offers a vibrant campus life but also boasts median earnings of $111,371 at ten years post-graduation, suggesting that its graduates are well-prepared for high-paying careers in various fields.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University immerses students in the heart of New York City, offering a unique backdrop for academic and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $102,491 at ten years after graduation, students here can expect strong outcomes that reflect the university's academic rigor and extensive professional connections.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

Yale University

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

Yale University, situated in New Haven, CT, is known for its academic excellence and rich history. With a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $100,533 a decade after graduation, Yale prepares its graduates for success across many fields, emphasizing critical thinking and creativity.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University in Providence, RI, students are encouraged to explore their interests through an open curriculum that promotes individualized learning. With a 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $93,487 at ten years, graduates emerge well-prepared to make their mark in the world, often finding careers that align with their passions.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant campus life. Students here benefit from a strong emphasis on critical thinking and research, which translates into impressive median earnings of $91,885 a decade after graduation.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lewisburg, Bucknell University combines liberal arts with a strong engineering program, attracting a diverse group of students. With an 86% graduation rate and median earnings of $93,807 within ten years, Bucknell prepares students for a range of successful careers in fields from business to the sciences.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the scenic town of Williamstown, Williams College fosters an intimate learning environment with a student body of just over 2,000. The college’s commitment to undergraduate education is evident in its 95% graduation rate and strong post-graduate earnings, with median earnings of $88,665 ten years after graduation.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College offers a blend of liberal arts and engineering programs, making it a unique choice for students seeking a well-rounded education. With an 88% graduation rate and median earnings of $91,410 at ten years out, Lafayette equips graduates with the skills they need for successful careers in various fields.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

College of the Holy Cross

Worcester, MA · 3,106 students · Private nonprofit

College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA, attracts students with its high graduation rate of 88% and the strong sense of community on campus. Alumni see median earnings of $90,543 after ten years, indicating that graduates are well-prepared for their careers, often entering fulfilling positions in various fields.

18% accepted 88% graduate $90,543 earnings

College's full profile

#10

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

At the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, the graduation rate is an impressive 96%, reflecting the institution's commitment to academic excellence. Students here can anticipate median earnings of $143,372 ten years post-graduation, underscoring the value of a degree from this institution in the technology and engineering sectors.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#11

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University is a powerhouse of innovation and success, known for its impressive graduation rate of 92%. With a student body of 7,554, it fosters an environment where academic excellence meets entrepreneurial spirit, setting the stage for students to thrive in various fields.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

#12

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located in Wellesley, MA, is known for its commitment to women's education and empowerment, with a graduation rate of 91%. The college's focus on academic excellence is reflected in the median earnings of its graduates, which stand at $84,803 after ten years, providing a pathway to successful careers.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#13

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University, nestled in Hamilton, NY, is home to a close-knit community of 3,180 students who enjoy a 91% graduation rate. This liberal arts college emphasizes a broad, well-rounded education that empowers students to engage critically with the world around them.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#14

Babson College

Wellesley, MA · 2,728 students · Private nonprofit

At Babson College in Wellesley, MA, the emphasis on entrepreneurship and business education is evident, with a graduation rate of 93%. Graduates experience some of the highest median earnings, reaching $123,938 after ten years, making Babson a strong contender for those aspiring to lead in the business world.

17% accepted 93% graduate $123,938 earnings

Babson's full profile

#15

Bentley University

Waltham, MA · 4,474 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 88%, Bentley University in Waltham, MA, demonstrates a strong track record of student success. The focus on business education helps graduates find their footing in the professional world, as reflected in their impressive median earnings of $120,959 a decade after graduation.

45% accepted 88% graduate $120,959 earnings

Bentley's full profile

#16

MCPHS University

Boston, MA · 3,451 students · Private nonprofit

MCPHS University in Boston is an appealing option for students interested in healthcare, with 63% of students graduating ready to jump into various professional roles. The university's strong emphasis on health sciences translates to median earnings of $125,557 ten years after graduation, making it a solid investment for aspiring healthcare professionals.

85% accepted 63% graduate $125,557 earnings

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

Albany, NY · 481 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $131,426 ten years post-graduation, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences prepares students for rewarding careers in healthcare. The school has a focused community of 481 students, where nearly 30% receive Pell Grants, reflecting its commitment to supporting diverse backgrounds in the demanding field of pharmacy and health sciences.

53% accepted 68% graduate $131,426 earnings

Albany's full profile

#18

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College stands out with a 95% graduation rate, indicating a strong support system for its 1,873 students. Located in Brunswick, ME, the college fosters an intimate academic environment where students thrive both personally and intellectually, often forming lifelong connections.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#19

Trinity College

Hartford, CT · 2,146 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 83%, Trinity College in Hartford, CT, cultivates an environment where students excel and find their paths. The median earnings for alumni a decade after graduation reach an impressive $90,779, suggesting that a Trinity education can lead to strong financial outcomes in the long run.

29% accepted 83% graduate $90,779 earnings

Trinity's full profile

#20

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate and an impressive median earnings figure of $138,687 at ten years post-graduation, Harvey Mudd College is a strong contender for students interested in engineering and science. Located in Claremont, California, this small private college cultivates a close-knit community of just 921 students, ensuring personalized attention and a collaborative learning environment that many find enriching.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#21

University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis

Saint Louis, MO · 337 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis offers a focused education for students aiming for a career in healthcare, highlighted by a graduation rate of 69%. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $137,047 ten years after earning their degree, indicating strong potential for success in this vital field.

90% accepted 69% graduate $137,047 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Fordham University

Bronx, NY · 10,512 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the Bronx, Fordham University has a vibrant campus with over 10,500 students and a strong focus on academic excellence. With an impressive graduation rate of 81%, students here not only complete their degrees but also find success in their careers, enjoying median earnings of $85,569 a decade after graduation.

59% accepted 81% graduate $85,569 earnings

Fordham's full profile

#23

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Davidson, North Carolina, Davidson College offers a liberal arts education that emphasizes critical thinking and leadership. With a graduation rate of 91% and median earnings of $81,400 a decade after graduation, it’s a place where students can explore diverse fields while preparing for meaningful careers.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#24

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, located in Waterville, Maine, is known for its stunning campus and strong commitment to the liberal arts. With an 89% graduation rate and a median earning of $80,490 at ten years after graduation, the college prepares students for a wide range of career paths while fostering a strong sense of community among its 2,407 students.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Carnegie Mellon University is an institution that not only values education but also prepares students for successful careers. Located in Pittsburgh, this school has a strong focus on technology and the arts, making it an attractive option for students interested in innovation and creativity.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#26

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, located in Pennsylvania, is known for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. With a graduation rate of 93%, the college fosters a collaborative atmosphere where students engage deeply with their studies, particularly in the liberal arts and sciences, preparing them for meaningful careers and lives.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#27

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College is a small but vibrant institution with just 1,430 students, offering a close-knit community that values honor and integrity. With a graduation rate of 90%, Haverford encourages students to explore their passions while providing a strong foundation in liberal arts education, fostering critical thinking and social responsibility.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#28

Barnard College

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

Set in the heart of New York City, Barnard College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and vibrant urban life. With a graduation rate of 93%, it cultivates a strong sense of community among its students, encouraging leadership and engagement in various fields, particularly among women pursuing higher education.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#29

Loyola University Maryland

Baltimore, MD · 3,869 students · Private nonprofit

In Baltimore, Loyola University Maryland offers a welcoming environment with 3,869 students and a graduation rate of 80%. The school emphasizes a values-based education, which helps graduates achieve median earnings of $82,652 a decade after they leave campus.

75% accepted 80% graduate $82,652 earnings

Loyola's full profile

#30

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, with its intimate setting of just under 2,000 students, is known for its high graduation rate of 94%. This creates an environment where students can thrive academically and personally, leading to solid median earnings of $77,644 ten years post-graduation.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#31

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, nestled in Clinton, NY, caters to a close-knit community of 2,030 students and boasts a graduation rate of 91%. Known for its liberal arts education, Hamilton empowers students with the critical thinking skills needed for success, reflected in the median earnings of $78,411 ten years after graduation.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#32

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 3% acceptance rate, California Institute of Technology attracts some of the brightest minds, fostering a tight-knit community of just 987 students. The impressive 94% graduation rate speaks to the institution's commitment to student success, while graduates can expect median earnings of $128,566 a decade after completing their degrees.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#33

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, a private college in Needham, Massachusetts, has a reputation for a hands-on approach to engineering education. With a graduation rate of 94% and median earnings of $129,455 after ten years, this small community of 377 students is geared towards those passionate about creating and innovating in the engineering field.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#34

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is renowned for its rigorous academic programs and robust intellectual community. With a remarkable 97% graduation rate, students are well-prepared for their future careers, leading to median earnings of $110,066 a decade after graduation, which reflects the value of a Princeton degree in the job market.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

#35

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Virginia Military Institute presents a unique blend of military training and academic rigor, which appeals to students looking for a structured and disciplined environment. With a graduation rate of 79%, it prepares cadets for leadership roles, emphasizing character development alongside education.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#36

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

Middlebury College in Vermont is known for its beautiful campus and strong emphasis on global education and languages. The college maintains a 92% graduation rate, equipping its students for future success with median earnings of $76,310 ten years after they leave, demonstrating the value of their education in a competitive job market.

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#37

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

Scripps College, nestled in Claremont, California, is known for its strong liberal arts education focused on empowering women. With a graduation rate of 85%, students benefit from a supportive environment that encourages intellectual growth and personal development, leading to median earnings of $77,539 ten years after graduation.

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

#38

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College, located in the charming town of Northfield, MN, is known for its strong liberal arts education and supportive community, evident in its 90% graduation rate. The college encourages critical thinking and creativity, making it a haven for students who thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#39

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Santa Clara University has a vibrant campus community in the heart of Silicon Valley, making it an appealing choice for students interested in technology and entrepreneurship. With a graduation rate of 88%, students are not just completing their degrees but are doing so in an environment that promotes innovation and professional growth.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, a public university in Williamsburg, VA, serves a larger student body of 7,055 and boasts a strong graduation rate of 90%. Graduates earn a median income of $73,490 after a decade, reflecting the university's emphasis on academic excellence and career preparedness. This institution cultivates a spirit of inquiry and leadership, making it an appealing option for those with ambitious goals.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#41

University of Richmond

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

Nestled in Virginia, the University of Richmond attracts 2,980 students who enjoy an impressive graduation rate of 86% and median earnings of $76,178 after ten years. The school's commitment to a well-rounded liberal arts education provides students with the skills to succeed in various fields, making it an attractive option for those looking to explore their interests.

22% accepted 86% graduate $76,178 earnings

University's full profile

#42

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

Stevens Institute of Technology is situated along the Hudson River in Hoboken, NJ, a hub for tech and innovation. The school has an impressive graduation rate of 88%, indicating strong student support and engagement in challenging programs, particularly in engineering and computer science.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#43

Franklin and Marshall College

Lancaster, PA · 1,799 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, PA, is home to about 1,799 students who benefit from a tight-knit community and a graduation rate of 85%. With median earnings of $76,124 ten years post-graduation, students can expect their investment in education to pay off in rewarding careers. The college emphasizes hands-on learning and research, providing a robust foundation for personal and professional growth.

28% accepted 85% graduate $76,124 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#44

Bryn Mawr College

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

With a graduation rate of 84%, Bryn Mawr College demonstrates a commitment to student success in a supportive environment. Located in Pennsylvania, this private college is known for its strong academic programs and dedicated faculty, which help students thrive academically and personally. The close-knit community fosters collaboration and lifelong friendships among students who value intellectual curiosity and social engagement.

29% accepted 84% graduate $75,217 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92% and a median earning of $73,897 ten years after enrollment, Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, is a compelling choice for students seeking a strong academic environment. The small student body of 3,067 fosters close-knit connections and encourages meaningful engagement both in and out of the classroom.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#46

Occidental College

Los Angeles, CA · 1,877 students · Private nonprofit

Occidental College, situated in Los Angeles, California, is a vibrant institution with an acceptance rate of 44%. It has a graduation rate of 83%, reflecting its supportive academic environment and engaged faculty. Known for its diverse programs and commitment to social responsibility, Occidental attracts students who seek a well-rounded education in a lively, urban setting.

44% accepted 83% graduate $75,951 earnings

Occidental's full profile

#47

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

Lehigh University stands out as a hub of innovation and excellence in Bethlehem, PA, with a graduation rate of 89%. This private institution is known for its engineering and business programs, attracting students eager to engage in hands-on learning and collaborative projects. The vibrant campus life and diverse student body create an enriching environment where academic and personal growth go hand in hand.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#48

The College of New Jersey

Ewing, NJ · 7,105 students · Public

The College of New Jersey offers a robust public education experience in Ewing, NJ, with an impressive graduation rate of 86%. This college prides itself on its strong academic programs and supportive faculty, helping students excel in a range of disciplines. The campus culture encourages collaboration and a sense of belonging, making it a welcoming environment for all students.

62% accepted 86% graduate $73,323 earnings

Kenyon College

Gambier, OH · 1,732 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 84% graduate $71,830 earnings

Kenyon's full profile

#50

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

With a 95% graduation rate, Cornell University is a beacon for students who value academic rigor and a supportive community. Located in the picturesque Ithaca, NY, this private nonprofit institution fosters a culture of collaboration among its 15,995 students, encouraging them to push boundaries and explore diverse disciplines. The strong median earnings of $104,043 at the 10-year mark reflect the university's commitment to preparing graduates for successful careers across various fields.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

The distinct outcomes seen in this data reveal notable differences between schools. For instance, while the University of Pennsylvania leads in earnings at $111,371, its higher net price of $28,699 may deter some students. In contrast, Brown University has a lower earning potential of $93,487 but also a lower debt load of $11,428, which could appeal more to those concerned about finances.

As you sift through these 50 schools, consider your own priorities. Are you leaning toward a school with high earnings potential but higher debt? Or are you more inclined to minimize debt, even if it means slightly lower earnings? Reflect on what campus life and location matter most to you, and how these factors align with financial realities.

Ultimately, the journey from college to a stable life hinges on making informed choices. For one family, sending their child to a school with a higher earning potential could mean a more secure financial future, while another may find that a school with lower debt enables quicker financial independence. Each decision shapes the path forward.

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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.

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