Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for English

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

Schools Analyzed

$57,291

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

58%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$13,050

Avg. Net Price

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When considering a degree in English, the cost of education and future earnings are key factors for many students and their families. This list highlights 50 colleges that stand out for their affordability and focus on English and Literature programs. The average earnings for graduates from these institutions is $56,729, which frames the potential return on investment for pursuing this degree.

The schools on this list are measured by important outcomes that can significantly affect a student’s experience and future. Metrics like graduation rates, average debt, and post-graduation earnings reveal the value these programs offer. For example, the average graduation rate across these colleges is 56%, indicating a solid foundation for students to complete their degrees.

CUNY Hunter College and CUNY Lehman College illustrate the range of options available. Hunter boasts a higher earning potential at $63,163 compared to Lehman’s $58,013, but comes with a slightly lower graduation rate of 59% versus Lehman's 50%. This contrast highlights the tradeoffs students may need to weigh when deciding on the right program for their goals.

Key Findings

CUNY Hunter College graduates earn an average of $63,163, the highest among the top five.

CUNY Lehman College has a net price of $3,148, making it one of the most affordable options.

The average graduation rate for this list is 56%, indicating a solid chance of completing a degree.

College of Staten Island CUNY has the highest debt burden at $14,350 among the top five.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $57,291

Avg. graduation rate 58%

Avg. net price $13,050

Avg. median debt $19,751

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY

Graduation50%

Earnings$58,013

Net Price$3,148

View full profile →

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY

Graduation56%

Earnings$62,763

Net Price$4,195

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College is home to over 16,000 students in the heart of New York City. With a strong focus on academic excellence, Hunter graduates see median earnings of $63,163 within ten years of finishing their degree. This suggests that students here can tap into the vast opportunities available in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College serves nearly 11,000 students, providing a strong academic foundation in the Bronx. Graduates can expect to earn a median of $58,013 within ten years, reflecting the school's commitment to preparing students for the job market. The 50% graduation rate highlights the challenges some students face, but also hints at the potential for growth and improvement within the student body.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College, with around 12,500 students, is a vibrant hub of academic activity in Queens. Graduates earn a median of $62,763 in their first decade post-graduation, which speaks to the quality of education that prepares them for successful careers. The 56% graduation rate presents room for improvement, but also suggests that many students are finding their way through the winding paths of college life.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma

Chickasha, OK · 941 students · Public

Nestled in Chickasha, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma offers a distinctive liberal arts education with a strong focus on creativity and diverse disciplines. With a student population of 941, it emphasizes both academic rigor and personal growth, allowing students to explore their unique interests.

66% accepted 41% graduate $41,913 earnings

University's full profile

University of Virginia's College at Wise

Wise, VA · 1,101 students · Public

The University of Virginia's College at Wise offers a unique opportunity in a stunning mountainous setting. With a student body of 1,101, it cultivates an intimate learning atmosphere while maintaining the prestige associated with the University of Virginia system.

29% accepted 48% graduate $45,325 earnings

University's full profile

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

With nearly 10,000 students, the College of Staten Island offers a unique educational experience in a quieter part of New York City. However, the school's graduation rate of just 33% raises important questions about student support and engagement. Graduates earn a median of $53,501 after a decade, which shows that while opportunities exist, they may not be as robust as at other CUNY institutions.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

With a remarkable graduation rate of 95%, the University of Chicago is a place where students not only enroll but thrive. Those who graduate do so with a median earning of $91,885 ten years after leaving, reflecting the school's strong emphasis on academic excellence and critical thinking.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

University of Minnesota-Morris

Morris, MN · 936 students · Public

With a close-knit community of just 936 students, the University of Minnesota-Morris fosters a personalized learning environment that can feel like home. This public university emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to engage deeply in their studies while receiving support from faculty and peers alike.

75% accepted 62% graduate $50,919 earnings

University's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College attracts students with its impressive graduation rate of 95%, ensuring that the majority of its 1,873 students complete their degrees. Graduates earn a median salary of $82,735 within ten years, reflecting Bowdoin's strong liberal arts education and the success of its alumni in various fields.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#10

Truman State University

Kirksville, MO · 2,513 students · Public

Truman State University, nestled in Kirksville, is an ideal choice for students who thrive in small class sizes and a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 68%, students here benefit from a supportive academic environment that encourages personal and professional growth, making it easier to connect with peers and professors alike.

84% accepted 68% graduate $56,280 earnings

Truman's full profile

#11

Dominican University

River Forest, IL · 2,561 students · Private nonprofit

Located in River Forest, Illinois, Dominican University prides itself on a strong commitment to student success, reflected in its 59% graduation rate. The university's close-knit community fosters personal connections between students and faculty, enhancing the overall educational experience.

90% accepted 59% graduate $60,327 earnings

Dominican's full profile

#12

University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, NC · 2,910 students · Public

Nestled in the scenic backdrop of Asheville, this university attracts students who appreciate both academic rigor and natural beauty. With a 92% acceptance rate, UNC Asheville welcomes a varied group of learners, and its graduation rate of 55% suggests a solid support system for students navigating their college journey.

92% accepted 55% graduate $44,030 earnings

University's full profile

#13

SUNY Old Westbury

Old Westbury, NY · 4,162 students · Public

At SUNY Old Westbury, the welcoming campus culture and diverse student body create an environment where everyone can thrive. With a 46% graduation rate, students have access to supportive resources that can help them navigate their academic journey and achieve their goals.

84% accepted 46% graduate $58,526 earnings

Fort Hays State University

Hays, KS · 9,733 students · Public

With a large student body of nearly 10,000, Fort Hays State University might be the right fit for those looking for a vibrant campus life. The school has a notably high acceptance rate of 90%, making it accessible for many students eager to pursue their education in a supportive environment.

90% accepted 48% graduate $48,928 earnings

College of the Ozarks

Point Lookout, MO · 1,444 students · Private nonprofit

Set in the scenic Ozarks, College of the Ozarks offers a unique model where students work to cover tuition, resulting in a low net price of just $6,100. This approach helps foster a strong work ethic among students, creating a community that values both education and personal responsibility.

12% accepted 62% graduate $41,592 earnings

College's full profile

#16

Louisiana State University-Alexandria

Alexandria, LA · 5,632 students · Public

Louisiana State University-Alexandria stands out for its welcoming atmosphere and expansive student body of 5,632. This public university provides a variety of programs and activities that cater to a diverse student population, making it a versatile option for those pursuing higher education in Louisiana.

92% accepted 35% graduate $42,205 earnings

Louisiana's full profile

#17

West Virginia State University

Institute, WV · 1,321 students · Public

West Virginia State University offers a nurturing environment for students seeking affordable higher education in a public university setting. With a high acceptance rate of 96%, it's a welcoming choice for many, but the graduation rate of only 36% indicates that students may need additional support to complete their degrees.

96% accepted 36% graduate $40,492 earnings

Indiana University-East

Richmond, IN · 2,589 students · Public

Indiana University-East offers a supportive community with a 67% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many students. Although the graduation rate is 42%, those who do graduate can expect median earnings of $47,156 ten years post-graduation, showcasing the potential for solid career pathways.

67% accepted 42% graduate $47,156 earnings

Indiana's full profile

#19

Sonoma State University

Rohnert Park, CA · 5,166 students · Public

Located in the heart of California's wine country, Sonoma State University has a vibrant campus life and a welcoming atmosphere. With a 93% acceptance rate, it opens doors for many students looking to pursue higher education in a picturesque setting.

93% accepted 59% graduate $65,986 earnings

Sonoma's full profile

#20

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College is a small, private nonprofit institution that boasts an impressive 95% graduation rate. Located in the picturesque town of Williamstown, this college is renowned for its rigorous academics and close faculty-student relationships, making it a great fit for those who value intellectual challenge and mentorship.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#21

Worcester State University

Worcester, MA · 3,930 students · Public

Worcester State University has a lively student population of nearly 4,000, which fosters a dynamic campus atmosphere. The school has a solid graduation rate of 58%, indicating a commitment to student persistence and academic success, along with an acceptance rate of 88% that opens doors for many aspiring students.

88% accepted 58% graduate $60,624 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#22

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA · 17,514 students · Public

Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA, welcomes a diverse population of over 17,000 students, creating a vibrant campus life. With a 45% graduation rate, it supports a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities that can help students engage and succeed in their studies and beyond.

90% accepted 45% graduate $54,914 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, Maine, is known for its exceptional graduation rate of 89%, which suggests a strong academic environment where students succeed. With a small student body of 2,407, Colby fosters personal relationships that contribute to a rich college experience, preparing students for their future careers or further studies.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

California State University-Channel Islands

Camarillo, CA · 5,013 students · Public

With a 95% acceptance rate, California State University-Channel Islands welcomes a diverse array of students. Located in the beautiful coastal city of Camarillo, this campus is known for its strong focus on student engagement and community involvement, making it an inviting place for those seeking an inclusive environment that values participation.

95% accepted 52% graduate $62,152 earnings

California's full profile

#25

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College is known for its rigorous academics and a close-knit community. The 13% acceptance rate reflects a selective admission process, attracting students who are driven and academically focused. With a graduation rate of 91%, students here are likely to find a supportive environment that fosters success.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#26

Sul Ross State University

Alpine, TX · 1,396 students · Public

With a 99% acceptance rate, Sul Ross State University welcomes a diverse group of students to its scenic campus in Alpine, Texas. The small student body of 1,396 fosters a tight-knit community, where personalized attention from faculty can make a significant difference in academic and personal growth.

99% accepted 29% graduate $41,871 earnings

Baptist University of Florida

Graceville, FL · 360 students · Private nonprofit

At Baptist University of Florida, students find a unique blend of faith-based education and a supportive community. With a graduation rate of 62% and a small student body of just 360, individuals looking for a personalized and spiritually enriching college experience may find this university particularly appealing.

36% accepted 62% graduate $42,836 earnings

Baptist's full profile

#28

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

Virginia Military Institute stands out as a unique public institution, combining rigorous academics with military training. With a graduation rate of 79%, it prepares students not just for careers, but for leadership roles in various fields, fostering discipline and resilience among its cadets.

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#29

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

Grinnell College might be small in size with just 1,729 students, but it offers a vibrant community that fosters intellectual growth. The impressive 88% graduation rate signals a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and build lasting connections with their peers and professors alike.

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#30

Metropolitan State University of Denver

Denver, CO · 15,002 students · Public

Metropolitan State University of Denver has a vibrant urban setting that immerses students in the heart of one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. With a 99% acceptance rate, this university welcomes a diverse array of students looking for accessible education options and a supportive community that aims to help them succeed.

99% accepted 31% graduate $52,093 earnings

Metropolitan's full profile

#31

University of Guam

Mangilao, GU · 2,515 students · Public

The University of Guam offers a unique opportunity to study in a beautiful island setting while providing a supportive community for its 2,515 students. Although the graduation rate is 39%, the university fosters a sense of belonging, which can be crucial for students as they navigate their college experience.

39% graduate $35,946 earnings

University's full profile

#32

Randolph College

Lynchburg, VA · 658 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Randolph College fosters a nurturing environment where students are known by name, not just numbers. With a focus on personalized education and small class sizes, students can dive deep into their interests while building strong relationships with faculty and peers.

94% accepted 49% graduate $53,409 earnings

Randolph's full profile

#33

Gallaudet University

Washington, DC · 812 students · Private nonprofit

With a unique focus on serving the deaf and hard of hearing community, Gallaudet University in Washington, DC, welcomes students from diverse backgrounds into an inclusive environment. The university's commitment to accessibility and tailored support can be a game changer for students seeking a vibrant campus life centered around shared experiences.

58% accepted 47% graduate $43,101 earnings

Gallaudet's full profile

#34

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its rigorous academic environment and vibrant campus life. With a 90% graduation rate, students here are well-prepared for their careers, and the median earnings of $73,490 a decade after graduation reflect the strong outcomes this institution offers.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#35

University of Wisconsin-Superior

Superior, WI · 1,807 students · Public

Although smaller in size with about 1,800 students, the University of Wisconsin-Superior offers an intimate learning environment. An acceptance rate of 93% reflects a welcoming approach to education, though a graduation rate of 43% may raise questions about student support and success, signaling the importance of finding the right fit for individual students.

93% accepted 43% graduate $49,606 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Bridgewater State University

Bridgewater, MA · 7,829 students · Public

88% accepted 54% graduate $57,466 earnings

Bridgewater's full profile

#37

Wesleyan College

Macon, GA · 400 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan College in Macon, GA is a private nonprofit institution with a tight-knit community of about 400 students. With a 50% graduation rate, it offers a supportive environment that encourages personal growth and academic achievement, especially for those who thrive in smaller settings where they can form meaningful connections with peers and faculty.

59% accepted 50% graduate $44,317 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#38

East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN · 10,004 students · Public

86% accepted 52% graduate $44,859 earnings

Western Colorado University

Gunnison, CO · 1,586 students · Public

Nestled in the scenic mountains of Gunnison, Colorado, Western Colorado University has a welcoming environment with a 100% acceptance rate. This public university caters to around 1,586 students, creating a tight-knit community where individual attention is valued. The median earnings of graduates ten years after enrollment sit at $46,833, suggesting that alumni are finding solid job opportunities in their fields. With a 51% graduation rate, students can expect a reasonable chance of completing their degrees in this supportive setting.

100% accepted 51% graduate $46,833 earnings

Western's full profile

#40

University of New Hampshire at Manchester

Manchester, NH · 443 students · Public

The University of New Hampshire at Manchester may have a smaller student body of 443, but it offers a welcoming atmosphere with a graduation rate of 56%. Graduates can expect median earnings of $66,479 ten years after graduation, reflecting decent job prospects for its alumni.

81% accepted 56% graduate $66,479 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Salem State University

Salem, MA · 4,291 students · Public

96% accepted 52% graduate $56,662 earnings

New Jersey City University

Jersey City, NJ · 3,681 students · Public

98% accepted 36% graduate $52,745 earnings

SUNY College at Geneseo

Geneseo, NY · 3,869 students · Public

66% accepted 72% graduate $67,316 earnings

Southern Oregon University

Ashland, OR · 2,751 students · Public

89% accepted 43% graduate $49,175 earnings

Southern's full profile

#45

Belhaven University

Jackson, MS · 1,471 students · Private nonprofit

50% accepted 50% graduate $46,440 earnings

Belhaven'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

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University is an esteemed institution located in the heart of New York City, attracting students from around the globe. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, students have access to a wealth of resources and connections that often propel them into successful careers after graduation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#48

Aquinas College

Grand Rapids, MI · 1,083 students · Private nonprofit

90% accepted 64% graduate $49,584 earnings

Aquinas's full profile

#49

Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts

North Adams, MA · 713 students · Public

90% accepted 52% graduate $48,102 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#50

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME · 4,222 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 79%, the University of Southern Maine invites a diverse student body to explore its programs. Located in Portland, this public university emphasizes accessibility and connection to local communities, providing students with opportunities to engage in meaningful experiences outside the classroom.

79% accepted 43% graduate $49,958 earnings

University's full profile

When looking closely at the data, CUNY Hunter College outperforms CUNY Lehman College in earnings, but the latter has a lower net price, which can appeal to cost-conscious students. Hunter's average earnings are $63,163, but students face a higher debt level compared to Lehman’s $10,950. These differences can influence which school is a better fit depending on individual financial circumstances.

As you weigh these options, consider how factors like location, campus culture, and specific program strengths align with your personal preferences. A lower net price might seem appealing, but it’s essential to think about the overall experience and future earning potential. Make a list of what matters most to you, and see how these schools fit into that framework.

Ultimately, choosing a college is about more than just numbers. It involves finding a path that leads to financial stability and personal fulfillment. For many families, the right choice can set the stage for a successful career, making this decision a critical step in a young adult's life.

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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