English at University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
39 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
40
Optimistic
39
Base Case
31
Pessimistic
Earnings $40,486/yr (33% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI 12.0x earnings multiple (6.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #41 of 493 English Language and Literature, General programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Your decision to explore English Language and Literature at the University of South Alabama puts you in a strong position, as graduates from this program consistently outperform their peers nationally. This isn't just about general academic excellence; it reflects a regional labor market that truly values strong communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. Mobile's economy, while diverse, has a consistent demand for skilled professionals in education, but also in local industries like healthcare, shipbuilding, and logistics, where clear technical writing and compelling internal/external communications are essential. Many USA English graduates leverage their versatile abilities in roles beyond traditional teaching, finding success in content strategy, marketing, grant writing, and project coordination within local businesses and non-profits. The program likely emphasizes practical applications, preparing you to articulate your value in a competitive environment. Focus on internships or projects that showcase your professional writing and editing prowess to fully capitalize on this regional advantage.

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) 11.9x 12.0x 11.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.2x 6.2x 5.9x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 41% 29%
DegreeOutlook Score 40 39 31

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,704
Out-of-state: $74,608 (6.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$60,568
-56% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,201
6.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,442
5% growth from Year 1

About University of South Alabama

University of South Alabama accepts 65% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, with a mid-sized student body of 8,540 in Mobile, AL.

See all programs and financial aid at University of South Alabama →

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

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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 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for English at University of South Alabama?
At 39/100, 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 University of South Alabama?
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 →