[College research](/) / [Rankings](/rankings/) # English Colleges in the West Ranked by Earnings (2026) Updated September 30, 2026 Regional list from [Best English Colleges in the United States](/rankings/best-english-colleges/) This page ranks the 101 English programs in the West by median earnings of English graduates four years after completing. [Stanford University](/school/stanford-university/majors/) ranks 1st on this list, reporting $82,036 for its English graduates four years after completing. Across the 96 schools with a published figure, median earnings range from $82,036 to $18,771, with a median of $49,148. Public institutions make up 64% of the list, with 65 public and 36 private nonprofit schools. California State University-Los Angeles posts the lowest average net price at $3,967, while University of California-Berkeley reports the highest six-year completion rate at 93%. University of California-San Diego ranks 1st on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. ## The ranked list 101 schools in list order | Rank | School | Median English Earnings | Average net price | Net price, families under $30K | Admission rate | | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | | 1 | Stanford University · Stanford, CA | $82,036 | $13,807 | \-$2,536\* | 3.6% | | | [Stanford University](/school/stanford-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $82,036](/school/stanford-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, the highest on this list. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($82,036) | | 2 | University of San Diego · San Diego, CA | $68,752 | $30,365 | $15,586 | 52.4% | | | Admitting 52% of applicants, [University of San Diego](/school/university-of-san-diego/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 84%](/school/university-of-san-diego/outcomes/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (25 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($68,752) | | 3 | Loyola Marymount University · Los Angeles, CA | $66,806 | $48,381 | $32,268 | 45.1% | | | With an [average net price of $48,381,](/school/loyola-marymount-university/cost/) [Loyola Marymount University](/school/loyola-marymount-university/majors/) ranks 3rd on this list. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (65 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($66,806) | | 4 | Seattle University · Seattle, WA | $66,766 | $34,662 | $22,896 | 76.9% | | | Seattle University shows an average net price of $22,896 for families earning under $30,000 alongside median earnings of $66,766 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (15 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($60,291) | | 5 | California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo · San Luis Obispo, CA | $63,413 | $16,665 | $7,529 | 31.3% | | | A public university in San Luis Obispo, [California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo](/school/california-polytechnic-state-university-san-luis-obispo/majors/) reports [median earnings of $63,413](/school/california-polytechnic-state-university-san-luis-obispo/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (60 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($63,413) | | 6 | University of California-Berkeley · Berkeley, CA | $61,964 | $13,481 | $5,311 | 11.0% | | | [University of California-Berkeley](/school/university-of-california-berkeley/majors/) [graduates 93% of its students within six years](/school/university-of-california-berkeley/outcomes/) and reports an average net price of $13,481. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (221 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (53 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($69,373), English Language and Literature, General ($60,187) | | 7 | Sonoma State University · Rohnert Park, CA | $59,418 | $12,885 | $8,310 | 93.4% | | | [Sonoma State University](/school/sonoma-state-university/majors/) [ranks 199th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/sonoma-state-university/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and admits 93% of applicants. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (81 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($59,418) | | 8 | University of California-Santa Barbara · Santa Barbara, CA | $59,334 | $16,109 | $9,231 | 33.0% | | | [University of California-Santa Barbara](/school/university-of-california-santa-barbara/majors/) reports [median earnings of $59,334](/school/university-of-california-santa-barbara/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, above the list median of $49,148. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (168 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($59,334) | | 9 | Gonzaga University · Spokane, WA | $59,151 | $35,119 | $20,833 | 81.7% | | | Gonzaga University posts a six-year completion rate of 86% and an average net price of $20,833 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($59,151) | | 10 | University of California-Davis · Davis, CA | $59,012 | $14,741 | $9,211 | 41.8% | | | [University of California-Davis](/school/university-of-california-davis/majors/) [ranks 18th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/university-of-california-davis/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, with median earnings of $59,012 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (187 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($59,012) | | 11 | University of California-Merced · Merced, CA | $58,623 | $11,983 | $7,945 | 90.5% | | | An [average net price of $11,983](/school/university-of-california-merced/cost/) accompanies an admission rate of 91% at [University of California-Merced](/school/university-of-california-merced/majors/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (31 graduates) | | 12 | Westmont College · Santa Barbara, CA | $58,459 | $29,053 | $20,899 | 77.1% | | | Westmont College shows median earnings of $58,459 for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 70%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (13 graduates) | | 13 | Saint Mary's College of California · Moraga, CA | $57,651 | $30,378 | $19,462 | 86.5% | | | Saint Mary's College of California reports median earnings of $57,651 for its English graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $19,462 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (27 graduates) | | 14 | University of California-San Diego · La Jolla, CA | $57,312 | $12,470 | $7,525 | 26.7% | | | [University of California-San Diego](/school/university-of-california-san-diego/majors/) holds an [Azimuth composite rank of 1st](/school/university-of-california-san-diego/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its English graduates earn a median of $57,312 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature/Letters, Other (62 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (30 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature/Letters, Other ($57,900) | | 15 | University of the Pacific · Stockton, CA | No published median | $25,447 | $17,004 | 71.3% | | | An [admission rate of 71%](/school/university-of-the-pacific/admissions/) and a six-year completion rate of 69% accompany [University of the Pacific](/school/university-of-the-pacific/majors/)'s position on this list. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (14 graduates) | | 16 | California Baptist University · Riverside, CA | $56,656 | $26,285 | $22,298 | 84.9% | | | [California Baptist University](/school/california-baptist-university/majors/) posts [median earnings of $56,656](/school/california-baptist-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $26,285. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (31 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($56,656) | | 17 | Nevada State University · Henderson, NV | $56,591 | $14,068 | $11,438 | 86.8% | | | Nevada State University graduates 34% of its students within six years and reports median earnings of $56,591 for English completers four years after graduating. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (16 graduates) | | 18 | San Francisco State University · San Francisco, CA | $56,297 | $12,278 | $9,341 | 96.4% | | | [San Francisco State University](/school/san-francisco-state-university/majors/) [ranks 51st on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/san-francisco-state-university/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its English graduates earn a median of $56,297 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (143 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($56,297) | | 19 | Metropolitan State University of Denver · Denver, CO | $55,713 | $15,327 | $12,481 | 98.8% | | | With an [admission rate of 99%](/school/metropolitan-state-university-of-denver/admissions/), [Metropolitan State University of Denver](/school/metropolitan-state-university-of-denver/majors/) carries an average net price of $12,481 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (68 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (58 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($58,918), English Language and Literature, General ($51,955) | | 20 | Whittier College · Whittier, CA | $55,536 | $25,757 | $21,718 | 80.8% | | | Whittier College reports median earnings of $55,536 for its English graduates four years after completing, and a six-year completion rate of 60%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (14 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($55,536) | | 21 | California State University-Dominguez Hills · Carson, CA | $55,081 | $8,615 | $7,303 | 93.3% | | | [California State University-Dominguez Hills](/school/california-state-university-dominguez-hills/majors/) carries an [average net price of $8,615](/school/california-state-university-dominguez-hills/cost/) and its English graduates earn a median of $55,081 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (61 graduates) | | 22 | California State University-San Marcos · San Marcos, CA | $54,985 | $10,229 | $6,230 | 95.1% | | | Median earnings of $54,985 for English completers four years after graduating coincide with an [admission rate of 95%](/school/california-state-university-san-marcos/admissions/) at [California State University-San Marcos](/school/california-state-university-san-marcos/majors/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (56 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($54,985) | | 23 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus · Denver, CO | $54,879 | $11,900 | $6,743 | 74.7% | | | [University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus](/school/university-of-colorado-denveranschutz-medical-campus/majors/) shows an [average net price of $6,743](/school/university-of-colorado-denveranschutz-medical-campus/cost/) for families earning under $30,000, and its English graduates earn a median of $54,879 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (42 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (33 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($55,361), English Language and Literature, General ($54,500) | | 24 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus · Seattle, WA | $54,722 | $14,091 | $6,384 | 39.2% | | | A [six-year completion rate of 85%](/school/university-of-washington-seattle-campus/outcomes/) and an average net price of $14,091 are reported by [University of Washington-Seattle Campus](/school/university-of-washington-seattle-campus/majors/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (109 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (42 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($57,649), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($47,124) | | 25 | California State University-Stanislaus · Turlock, CA | $54,501 | $6,067 | $3,938 | 98.1% | | | [California State University-Stanislaus](/school/california-state-university-stanislaus/majors/) reports [median earnings of $54,501](/school/california-state-university-stanislaus/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 53%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (80 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($54,501) | | 26 | University of California-Irvine · Irvine, CA | $54,299 | $14,251 | $8,123 | 28.6% | | | With an [admission rate of 29%](/school/university-of-california-irvine/admissions/), [University of California-Irvine](/school/university-of-california-irvine/majors/) ranks 12th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (138 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($54,299) | | 27 | Brigham Young University · Provo, UT | $54,290 | $15,564 | $10,444 | 67.8% | | | [Brigham Young University](/school/brigham-young-university/majors/), a private nonprofit university in Provo, shows an [average net price of $15,564](/school/brigham-young-university/cost/) and a six-year completion rate of 81%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (126 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($54,290) | | 28 | University of Colorado Boulder · Boulder, CO | $54,085 | $25,346 | $14,231 | 78.1% | | | [University of Colorado Boulder](/school/university-of-colorado-boulder/majors/) ranks 28th on this list, with [median earnings of $54,085](/school/university-of-colorado-boulder/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (86 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($54,085) | | 29 | University of Utah · Salt Lake City, UT | $53,739 | $16,200 | $13,123 | 86.0% | | | An [average net price of $13,123](/school/university-of-utah/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 accompanies an admission rate of 86% at [University of Utah](/school/university-of-utah/majors/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (88 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (27 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($47,005) | | 30 | California State University-Channel Islands · Camarillo, CA | $53,200 | $9,849 | $6,857 | 94.8% | | | [California State University-Channel Islands](/school/california-state-university-channel-islands/majors/) posts a [six-year completion rate of 51%](/school/california-state-university-channel-islands/outcomes/) and median earnings of $53,200 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (48 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($53,200) | | 31 | California State University-East Bay · Hayward, CA | $53,147 | $9,320 | $6,360 | 97.4% | | | With an [average net price of $9,320,](/school/california-state-university-east-bay/cost/) [California State University-East Bay](/school/california-state-university-east-bay/majors/) ranks 67th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (57 graduates) | | 32 | University of New Mexico-Main Campus · Albuquerque, NM | $52,568 | $15,489 | $11,938 | 95.2% | | | [University of New Mexico-Main Campus](/school/university-of-new-mexico-main-campus/majors/) reports [median earnings of $52,568](/school/university-of-new-mexico-main-campus/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing and an admission rate of 95%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (84 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (54 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($56,244), English Language and Literature, General ($46,850) | | 33 | University of California-Los Angeles · Los Angeles, CA | No published median | $12,548 | $5,579 | 9.0% | | | Graduating 93% of its students within six years, [University of California-Los Angeles](/school/university-of-california-los-angeles/majors/) [ranks 22nd on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/university-of-california-los-angeles/) among nonprofit four-year institutions. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (275 graduates), Literature (28 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($55,346) | | 34 | California Lutheran University · Thousand Oaks, CA | $52,428 | $30,109 | $22,161 | 75.7% | | | [California Lutheran University](/school/california-lutheran-university/majors/), a private nonprofit university in Thousand Oaks, shows an [average net price of $22,161](/school/california-lutheran-university/cost/) for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (11 graduates) | | 35 | California State University-Bakersfield · Bakersfield, CA | $52,420 | $5,652 | $3,536 | 93.9% | | | An [average net price of $5,652](/school/california-state-university-bakersfield/cost/) and a six-year completion rate of 50% place [California State University-Bakersfield](/school/california-state-university-bakersfield/majors/) at 35th on this list. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (61 graduates) | | 36 | Seattle Pacific University · Seattle, WA | $52,378 | $24,488 | $20,735 | 83.4% | | | Seattle Pacific University reports median earnings of $52,378 for its English graduates four years after completing and an admission rate of 83%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (19 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($52,378) | | 37 | California State University-Los Angeles · Los Angeles, CA | $52,259 | $3,967 | $2,877 | 91.3% | | | [California State University-Los Angeles](/school/california-state-university-los-angeles/majors/) carries the lowest average net price on the page at $3,967, and its English graduates report [median earnings of $52,259](/school/california-state-university-los-angeles/outcomes/) four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (78 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($52,259) | | 38 | California State University-Fullerton · Fullerton, CA | $51,845 | $6,555 | $3,315 | 90.5% | | | With a [six-year completion rate of 70%](/school/california-state-university-fullerton/outcomes/), [California State University-Fullerton](/school/california-state-university-fullerton/majors/) ranks 38th on this list and reports median earnings of $51,845 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (159 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($51,845) | | 39 | Chapman University · Orange, CA | $50,909 | $46,555 | $33,559 | 65.4% | | | A private nonprofit university in Orange, [Chapman University](/school/chapman-university/majors/) [admits 65% of applicants](/school/chapman-university/admissions/) and reports median earnings of $50,909 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (34 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (32 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($44,183) | | 40 | Washington State University · Pullman, WA | $50,745 | $14,971 | $7,074 | 86.6% | | | [Washington State University](/school/washington-state-university/majors/) posts [median earnings of $50,745](/school/washington-state-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $14,971. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (106 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($50,745) | | 41 | Arizona State University Campus Immersion · Tempe, AZ | $50,704 | $14,967 | $9,070 | 89.9% | | | [Arizona State University Campus Immersion](/school/arizona-state-university-campus-immersion/majors/) [ranks 21st on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/arizona-state-university-campus-immersion/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its English graduates earn a median of $50,704 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (176 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (8 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($61,676), English Language and Literature, General ($50,205) | | 42 | California State University-Sacramento · Sacramento, CA | $50,680 | $9,338 | $6,501 | 94.0% | | | Admitting 94% of applicants, [California State University-Sacramento](/school/california-state-university-sacramento/majors/) reports [median earnings of $50,680](/school/california-state-university-sacramento/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (153 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($50,680) | | 43 | Willamette University · Salem, OR | $50,060 | $25,121 | $16,182 | 77.1% | | | Willamette University graduates 71% of its students within six years, and its English graduates earn a median of $50,060 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (17 graduates) | | 44 | California State University-Long Beach · Long Beach, CA | $49,804 | $10,440 | $7,183 | 46.3% | | | [California State University-Long Beach](/school/california-state-university-long-beach/majors/) [ranks 5th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/california-state-university-long-beach/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, and reports median earnings of $49,804 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (263 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($49,804) | | 45 | Southern Oregon University · Ashland, OR | $49,706 | $16,732 | $11,830 | 88.6% | | | Southern Oregon University reports median earnings of $49,706 for its English graduates four years after completing, with an average net price of $16,732. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (12 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (11 graduates) | | 46 | University of San Francisco · San Francisco, CA | $49,684 | $41,431 | $31,537 | 61.7% | | | A private nonprofit university in San Francisco, [University of San Francisco](/school/university-of-san-francisco/majors/) [admits 62% of applicants](/school/university-of-san-francisco/admissions/) and its English graduates earn a median of $49,684 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (26 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($49,684) | | 47 | University of Portland · Portland, OR | $49,434 | $28,210 | $20,070 | 89.2% | | | University of Portland graduates 80% of its students within six years, and its English graduates report median earnings of $49,434 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (18 graduates) | | 48 | San Diego State University · San Diego, CA | $49,406 | $15,364 | $9,910 | 36.2% | | | [San Diego State University](/school/san-diego-state-university/majors/) [admits 36% of applicants](/school/san-diego-state-university/admissions/), and its English graduates earn a median of $49,406 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (116 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (14 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($49,406) | | 49 | University of Denver · Denver, CO | $49,287 | $36,131 | $20,097 | 77.8% | | | University of Denver, a private nonprofit university in Denver, reports median earnings of $49,287 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (28 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($49,287) | | 50 | California State University-Chico · Chico, CA | $49,189 | $14,480 | $9,902 | 92.7% | | | [California State University-Chico](/school/california-state-university-chico/majors/) [admits 93% of applicants](/school/california-state-university-chico/admissions/) and shows a six-year completion rate of 63%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (75 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($49,189) | | 51 | University of Southern California · Los Angeles, CA | $49,108 | $32,740 | $13,516 | 9.8% | | | With an [admission rate of 10%](/school/university-of-southern-california/admissions/), [University of Southern California](/school/university-of-southern-california/majors/) graduates 92% of its students within six years. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (37 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (27 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($41,637) | | 52 | University of Nevada-Las Vegas · Las Vegas, NV | $48,773 | $10,359 | $8,526 | 96.2% | | | [University of Nevada-Las Vegas](/school/university-of-nevada-las-vegas/majors/) posts an [average net price of $10,359](/school/university-of-nevada-las-vegas/cost/) and ranks 76th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (90 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($48,773) | | 53 | Montana State University · Bozeman, MT | $47,757 | $22,499 | $17,797 | 82.1% | | | Montana State University reports median earnings of $47,757 for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 57%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (53 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($47,757) | | 54 | California State Polytechnic University-Pomona · Pomona, CA | $47,721 | $11,531 | $7,851 | 75.2% | | | [California State Polytechnic University-Pomona](/school/california-state-polytechnic-university-pomona/majors/) [ranks 15th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/california-state-polytechnic-university-pomona/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and carries an average net price of $11,531. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (83 graduates) | | 55 | Whitworth University · Spokane, WA | $47,699 | $26,534 | $16,788 | 89.8% | | | Whitworth University shows an average net price of $16,788 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 71%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (23 graduates) | | 56 | California State University-Northridge · Northridge, CA | $47,660 | $7,021 | $4,905 | 93.5% | | | [California State University-Northridge](/school/california-state-university-northridge/majors/) reports [median earnings of $47,660](/school/california-state-university-northridge/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $7,021. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (178 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($47,660) | | 57 | University of Oregon · Eugene, OR | $47,639 | $22,182 | $15,909 | 88.3% | | | [University of Oregon](/school/university-of-oregon/majors/) [admits 88% of applicants](/school/university-of-oregon/admissions/) and reports median earnings of $47,639 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (81 graduates) | | 58 | Santa Clara University · Santa Clara, CA | $47,260 | $50,062 | $22,985 | 48.0% | | | [Santa Clara University](/school/santa-clara-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $47,260](/school/santa-clara-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates two years after completing, with an admission rate of 48%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (22 graduates) | | 59 | California State University-Fresno · Fresno, CA | $47,223 | $7,000 | $5,105 | 95.3% | | | [California State University-Fresno](/school/california-state-university-fresno/majors/) [ranks 26th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/california-state-university-fresno/) among nonprofit four-year institutions and shows an average net price of $5,105 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (90 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($47,223) | | 60 | University of Northern Colorado · Greeley, CO | $46,455 | $17,760 | $12,695 | 85.9% | | | University of Northern Colorado reports a six-year completion rate of 51% and median earnings of $46,455 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (35 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($46,455) | | 61 | University of California-Riverside · Riverside, CA | $46,452 | $14,304 | $8,852 | 76.4% | | | Ranks 61st on this list, [University of California-Riverside](/school/university-of-california-riverside/majors/) reports [median earnings of $46,452](/school/university-of-california-riverside/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (125 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (49 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($50,712), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($35,583) | | 62 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins · Fort Collins, CO | $46,154 | $21,279 | $13,259 | 88.5% | | | With a [six-year completion rate of 67%](/school/colorado-state-university-fort-collins/outcomes/), [Colorado State University-Fort Collins](/school/colorado-state-university-fort-collins/majors/) ranks 62nd on this list and posts an admission rate of 89%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (81 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($46,154) | | 63 | University of Puget Sound · Tacoma, WA | $46,144 | $38,394 | $23,643 | 72.3% | | | University of Puget Sound, a private nonprofit university in Tacoma, shows an average net price of $23,643 for families earning under $30,000 alongside median earnings of $46,144 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (8 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (5 graduates) | | 64 | Northern Arizona University · Flagstaff, AZ | $45,915 | $14,158 | $9,709 | 89.6% | | | [Northern Arizona University](/school/northern-arizona-university/majors/) [admits 90% of applicants](/school/northern-arizona-university/admissions/) and its English graduates earn a median of $45,915 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (77 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($45,915) | | 65 | University of Wyoming · Laramie, WY | $45,673 | $13,599 | $7,977 | 96.9% | | | [University of Wyoming](/school/university-of-wyoming/majors/) ranks 65th on this list, with a [six-year completion rate of 59%](/school/university-of-wyoming/outcomes/) and an average net price of $13,599. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (51 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($45,673) | | 66 | University of Nevada-Reno · Reno, NV | $45,095 | $15,927 | $12,674 | 73.7% | | | An [average net price of $12,674](/school/university-of-nevada-reno/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 and median earnings of $45,095 four years after completing are reported by [University of Nevada-Reno](/school/university-of-nevada-reno/majors/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (77 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($45,095) | | 67 | University of Arizona · Tucson, AZ | $44,168 | $16,674 | $13,353 | 86.1% | | | [University of Arizona](/school/university-of-arizona/majors/) posts an [admission rate of 86%](/school/university-of-arizona/admissions/) and its English graduates earn a median of $44,168 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (61 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (51 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($44,260), English Language and Literature, General ($44,058) | | 68 | Colorado State University Pueblo · Pueblo, CO | $44,045 | $10,051 | $9,374 | 94.9% | | | Colorado State University Pueblo reports median earnings of $44,045 for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 40%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (10 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($44,045) | | 69 | California State University-San Bernardino · San Bernardino, CA | $43,648 | $4,564 | $2,681 | 93.7% | | | [California State University-San Bernardino](/school/california-state-university-san-bernardino/majors/) carries an [average net price of $4,564](/school/california-state-university-san-bernardino/cost/) and its English graduates earn a median of $43,648 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (149 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($43,648) | | 70 | Portland State University · Portland, OR | $43,342 | $9,552 | $7,655 | 90.9% | | | [Portland State University](/school/portland-state-university/majors/) ranks 70th on this list, with an [average net price of $7,655](/school/portland-state-university/cost/) for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 53%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (79 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (17 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($43,342) | | 71 | California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt · Arcata, CA | $43,310 | $13,171 | $8,483 | 98.2% | | | [California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt](/school/california-state-polytechnic-university-humboldt/majors/) [admits 98% of applicants](/school/california-state-polytechnic-university-humboldt/admissions/) and reports median earnings of $43,310 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (48 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($43,310) | | 72 | Biola University · La Mirada, CA | $43,154 | $31,495 | $27,144 | 74.4% | | | [Biola University](/school/biola-university/majors/), a private nonprofit university in La Mirada, shows a [six-year completion rate of 68%](/school/biola-university/outcomes/) and median earnings of $43,154 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (26 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($43,154) | | 73 | University of Colorado Colorado Springs · Colorado Springs, CO | $42,627 | $15,788 | $12,065 | 97.4% | | | [University of Colorado Colorado Springs](/school/university-of-colorado-colorado-springs/majors/) reports [median earnings of $42,627](/school/university-of-colorado-colorado-springs/outcomes/) for its English graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $15,788. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (63 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($42,627) | | 74 | Oregon State University · Corvallis, OR | $42,541 | $19,604 | $12,107 | 77.3% | | | [Oregon State University](/school/oregon-state-university/majors/) [admits 77% of applicants](/school/oregon-state-university/admissions/) and graduates 70% of its students within six years. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (44 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (8 graduates) | | 75 | Central Washington University · Ellensburg, WA | $42,208 | $18,476 | $11,846 | 90.6% | | | [Central Washington University](/school/central-washington-university/majors/) ranks 75th on this list, with a [six-year completion rate of 54%](/school/central-washington-university/outcomes/) and an average net price of $11,846 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (49 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (13 graduates) | | 76 | Fort Lewis College · Durango, CO | $41,653 | $17,296 | $18,622 | 77.3% | | | Fort Lewis College posts median earnings of $41,653 for its English graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 36%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (22 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($41,653) | | 77 | The University of Montana · Missoula, MT | $41,634 | $16,784 | $13,960 | 95.9% | | | The University of Montana ranks 829th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its English graduates earn a median of $41,634 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (34 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($41,634) | | 78 | Eastern Washington University · Cheney, WA | $41,541 | $13,886 | $9,547 | 90.8% | | | [Eastern Washington University](/school/eastern-washington-university/majors/) reports an [average net price of $13,886](/school/eastern-washington-university/cost/) and median earnings of $41,541 for its English graduates four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (31 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (6 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($41,541) | | 79 | Western Washington University · Bellingham, WA | $40,943 | $21,193 | $12,915 | 93.3% | | | [Western Washington University](/school/western-washington-university/majors/) [admits 93% of applicants](/school/western-washington-university/admissions/) and its English graduates earn a median of $40,943 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (136 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (60 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($46,571), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies ($38,460) | | 80 | Idaho State University · Pocatello, ID | $40,602 | $12,193 | $10,593 | Not reported | | | Idaho State University reports a six-year completion rate of 39% and an average net price of $10,593 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (20 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($40,602) | | 81 | University of Hawaii at Manoa · Honolulu, HI | $39,948 | $15,664 | $10,675 | 86.6% | | | [University of Hawaii at Manoa](/school/university-of-hawaii-at-manoa/majors/) [ranks 258th on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/university-of-hawaii-at-manoa/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, with an average net price of $15,664. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (56 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($39,948) | | 82 | Lewis & Clark College · Portland, OR | $39,705 | $36,013 | $15,962 | 78.5% | | | Lewis & Clark College graduates 75% of its students within six years and reports an average net price of $15,962 for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (26 graduates) | | 83 | Western Colorado University · Gunnison, CO | $39,414 | $16,425 | $11,490 | 99.7% | | | Western Colorado University admits 100% of applicants and its English graduates earn a median of $39,414 four years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (9 graduates) | | 84 | University of Redlands · Redlands, CA | No published median | $30,031 | $28,287 | 82.7% | | | [University of Redlands](/school/university-of-redlands/majors/) [ranks 651st on Azimuth's composite ranking](/school/university-of-redlands/) among nonprofit four-year institutions, and graduates 67% of its students within six years. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (22 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (16 graduates) | | 85 | University of Alaska Anchorage · Anchorage, AK | $37,326 | $15,301 | $11,582 | Not reported | | | 85th on this list, University of Alaska Anchorage reports median earnings of $37,326 for its English graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $15,301. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (23 graduates) | | 86 | Corban University · Salem, OR | $36,779 | $28,035 | $20,555 | 93.9% | | | Corban University admits 94% of applicants and shows a six-year completion rate of 61%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (18 graduates) Highest four-year median earnings by program: English Language and Literature, General ($36,779) | | 87 | New Mexico State University-Main Campus · Las Cruces, NM | $32,767 | $8,889 | $6,648 | 89.0% | | | [New Mexico State University-Main Campus](/school/new-mexico-state-university-main-campus/majors/) ranks 87th on this list and carries an [average net price of $8,889](/school/new-mexico-state-university-main-campus/cost/). | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (32 graduates) | | 88 | San Jose State University · San Jose, CA | $32,391 | $13,760 | $9,730 | 84.6% | | | [San Jose State University](/school/san-jose-state-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $32,391](/school/san-jose-state-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates two years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 69%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (101 graduates) | | 89 | Pacific Lutheran University · Tacoma, WA | $31,195 | $19,589 | $13,609 | 78.0% | | | Pacific Lutheran University posts an average net price of $13,609 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 69%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (12 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (8 graduates) | | 90 | University of Idaho · Moscow, ID | No published median | $14,831 | $11,270 | 75.5% | | | [University of Idaho](/school/university-of-idaho/majors/) ranks 90th on this list, with an [admission rate of 76%](/school/university-of-idaho/admissions/) and a six-year completion rate of 57%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (14 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (10 graduates) | | 91 | Pepperdine University · Malibu, CA | $29,685 | $58,098 | $50,560 | 62.9% | | | [Pepperdine University](/school/pepperdine-university/majors/) reports [median earnings of $29,685](/school/pepperdine-university/outcomes/) for its English graduates two years after completing, and an admission rate of 63%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (10 graduates), English Language and Literature, General (6 graduates) | | 92 | Western Oregon University · Monmouth, OR | $28,236 | $17,237 | $15,575 | 98.1% | | | Western Oregon University admits 98% of applicants and carries an average net price of $17,237. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (16 graduates) | | 93 | Adams State University · Alamosa, CO | $28,019 | $12,980 | $9,947 | Not reported | | | Adams State University reports median earnings of $28,019 for its English graduates two years after completing, and a six-year completion rate of 39%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (6 graduates) | | 94 | University of La Verne · La Verne, CA | $26,353 | $20,161 | $20,151 | 71.2% | | | [University of La Verne](/school/university-of-la-verne/majors/) ranks 94th on this list, with an [average net price of $20,151](/school/university-of-la-verne/cost/) for families earning under $30,000. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (12 graduates) | | 95 | George Fox University · Newberg, OR | $26,353 | $31,679 | $22,871 | 93.5% | | | George Fox University reports median earnings of $26,353 for its English graduates two years after completing, alongside an admission rate of 94%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature/Letters, Other (11 graduates) | | 96 | Pacific University · Forest Grove, OR | $25,194 | $35,273 | $23,318 | 89.6% | | | Pacific University posts a six-year completion rate of 67% and an average net price of $35,273. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (11 graduates), Literature (5 graduates) | | 97 | Occidental College · Los Angeles, CA | No published median | $38,263 | $20,705 | 44.2% | | | Occidental College, a private nonprofit university in Los Angeles, ranks 97th on this list and reports a six-year completion rate of 81%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (10 graduates) | | 98 | Colorado College · Colorado Springs, CO | $20,482 | $33,375 | $9,217 | 18.5% | | | Colorado College reports median earnings of $20,482 for its English graduates two years after completing, alongside an admission rate of 18%. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (12 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (9 graduates) | | 99 | Azusa Pacific University · Azusa, CA | $20,413 | $22,212 | $15,781 | 88.4% | | | With an [average net price of $15,781](/school/azusa-pacific-university/cost/) for families earning under $30,000, [Azusa Pacific University](/school/azusa-pacific-university/majors/) ranks 99th on this list. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (19 graduates) | | 100 | Whitman College · Walla Walla, WA | $18,868 | $33,313 | $13,567 | 38.2% | | | Whitman College ranks 1115th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports median earnings of $18,868 for its English graduates two years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (21 graduates), Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies (8 graduates) | | 101 | Reed College · Portland, OR | $18,771 | $33,013 | $12,674 | 24.6% | | | Reed College admits 25% of applicants and reports median earnings of $18,771 for its English graduates two years after completing. | | | Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: English Language and Literature, General (18 graduates) | \* Net price can be negative: when grants and scholarships exceed the listed cost of attendance, students can receive the difference as a refund for other expenses. ## How this list is ordered Schools are ordered by the median earnings of their English graduates four years after completing, highest first. Only schools with a reported English earnings cohort in the West appear. The figure is the median earnings of federally aided English graduates who were working and not enrolled, measured four years after completing. For 13 of the 101 listed programs the figure is the two-year completion median rather than the four-year one. The metric does not adjust for graduate school enrollment, cost, or who enrolls, and it is not a measure of teaching quality. The range and median below cover the 96 schools with a published figure. Stanford University reports $82,036, a gap of $13,284 above University of San Diego at $68,752. ## Related rankings - [Best English Colleges in the United States](/rankings/best-english-colleges/) - [Best Colleges in the West](/rankings/best-colleges-in-the-west/) - [Best English Colleges in the Northeast](/rankings/best-english-colleges-in-the-northeast/) - [Best English Colleges in the Midwest](/rankings/best-english-colleges-in-the-midwest/) - [Best English Colleges in the South](/rankings/best-english-colleges-in-the-south/)