English at Manhattan College

Riverdale, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
14 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
14
Optimistic
14
Base Case
11
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,013/yr (-34% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 2.8x earnings multiple
Ranked #485 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs

Program Analysis

The data suggests that graduates from Manhattan College's English program often navigate a competitive job market in the greater New York area, where initial roles in fields traditionally open to English majors may not offer high starting salaries. While NYC is a hub for publishing, education, and non-profits, many entry-level positions in these sectors, or even in areas like technical writing or content creation, can begin modestly. The program likely emphasizes strong analytical and communication skills, which are invaluable, but translating them into higher-paying career tracks often requires deliberate strategy. To maximize your return, proactively pursue internships in corporate communications, digital marketing, or even legal support during your studies, and consider complementing your degree with a minor or certifications in a business-oriented field or data analytics.

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 2.8x 2.8x 2.5x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 14 14 11

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$203,400
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$107,524
47% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
16.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$48,499
142% growth from Year 1

About Manhattan College

Manhattan College has a 78% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 2,928 in Riverdale, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $107,524 over four years — 47% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at Manhattan 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 Manhattan College

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 14/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English at Manhattan College?
At 14/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring English programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a English degree from Manhattan College?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 16 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study English at Manhattan 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.
Is Manhattan College a good choice for English despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Manhattan College'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 →