English at Bates College

Lewiston, ME · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
29 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
30
Optimistic
29
Base Case
21
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,233/yr (32% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 2.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #262 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs

Program Analysis

A Bates English degree, from an elite liberal arts institution, signals exceptional critical thinking and communication abilities to employers across diverse sectors, not just those directly tied to literature. Your rigorous training in analysis and persuasive writing is highly valued, helping graduates secure roles in areas like marketing, content strategy, publishing, or non-profit management, often leveraging the strong alumni network in major metropolitan areas far beyond Maine. While direct paths like teaching are common, many find success by applying their analytical prowess to broader fields. The "Very High" AI risk reflects the automation of *tasks* like basic proofreading, but the uniquely human elements of creative storytelling, nuanced argumentation, and interpersonal communication — central to a Bates education — remain indispensable. To thrive, actively seek internships that combine your literary skills with practical applications in digital media, project management, or data analysis, making yourself indispensable in an evolving job market.

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 $571K $561K $508K
Earnings Multiple 2.2x 2.2x 2.0x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 30 29 21

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$253,912
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$122,812
52% less than sticker · See by income
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$60,044
49% growth from Year 1

About Bates College

Bates College's 13% admission rate places it in the top tier of selectivity nationally, a smaller institution with 1,753 students in Lewiston, ME. The average net cost of $122,812 over four years represents a 52% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at Bates 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 Bates 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 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English at Bates College?
At 29/100, 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 Bates 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.
What do students actually pay for English at Bates College?
The 52% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $253,912. At a net cost of $122,812, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →