Program Analysis
Western Illinois University's English program produces graduates earning $30,652/yr — within striking distance of the $30,427 national average for this field.
A 7.4x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.
The 2% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some English career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $21,032 against $30,652/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #346 ranking among 493 English programs places Western Illinois University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $30,652 to $35,909 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.