English at Appalachian State University

Boone, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
27
Optimistic
26
Base Case
23
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,397/yr (-23% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 15.5x earnings multiple (4.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #337 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to English graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $462K $466K $442K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.3x 15.5x 14.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.7x 4.7x 4.5x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 27 26 23

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$30,164
Out-of-state: $98,148 (4.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$65,948
-119% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,499
10.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$37,977
62% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Appalachian State University's English graduates start at $23,397/yr, trailing the $30,427 national average by 23%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

With a 15.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some English career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,499 against $23,397/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #337 ranking among 493 English programs places Appalachian State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $23,397-to-$37,977 earnings arc over five years reflects a 62% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Appalachian State University

A 89% acceptance rate means Appalachian State University is accessible to most applicants, enrolling 19,304 students in Boone, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at Appalachian State University →

Top Career Paths

English language and literature teachers, postsecondary $78,270/yr
Secondary school teachers, except special and career/technical education $64,580/yr
Proofreaders and copy markers $49,210/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

English at Other Schools

Other Majors at Appalachian State University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English at Appalachian State University?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring English programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study English at Appalachian State University?
The 61% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Appalachian State University a good choice for English despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Appalachian State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →