English at Barnard College

New York, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
32 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
32
Optimistic
32
Base Case
24
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,414/yr (33% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 2.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #205 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

Your Barnard English degree isn't just about literary analysis; it's a rigorous training in critical thinking, persuasive communication, and complex problem-solving. These highly transferable skills, honed within an elite liberal arts environment, are deeply valued by employers across diverse New York City industries – from publishing and media to tech, finance, and non-profits. The strong alumni network and internship opportunities unique to a top-tier institution in a global hub like NYC significantly boost post-graduation outcomes, helping graduates secure roles that leverage their intellectual agility beyond traditional English-specific careers. While some roles face high AI risk, your ability to think creatively, craft nuanced narratives, and engage in high-level strategic communication will differentiate you. Focus on internships and projects that apply your analytical skills to real-world business or communication challenges, ensuring you build a portfolio that showcases your strategic value.

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 $620K $603K $537K
Earnings Multiple 2.3x 2.3x 2.0x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 32 32 24

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$264,984
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$157,012
41% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,558
5.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$66,870
65% growth from Year 1

About Barnard College

Only 8% of applicants gain admission to Barnard College, reflecting elite selectivity, a compact campus enrolling 3,219 students in New York, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $157,012 over four years — 41% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Barnard College →

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 Barnard College

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English at Barnard College?
At 32/100, 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 Barnard College?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →