English at Willamette University
Salem, OR · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · English Language and Literature, General
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
26
Optimistic
26
Base Case
20
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,863/yr (8% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (61% exposed)
Job Market
Large (73,200 openings/yr)
ROI
2.3x earnings multiple
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 | $438K | $445K | $427K |
| Earnings Multiple | 2.3x | 2.3x | 2.2x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 48% | 41% | 29% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 26 | 26 | 20 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$193,072
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,250
7.4 months of Year 1 earnings
About Willamette University
A 79% acceptance rate means Willamette University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 1,525 in Salem, OR. The average net cost of $94,652 over four years represents a 51% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Willamette 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
Compare & Explore
English at Other Schools
Other Majors at Willamette 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
How does Willamette University's English program score?
This program scores 26/100 — on the lower end for English. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is English to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' English careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 61% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is English at Willamette University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $193,072, but the average net cost is $94,652 — a 51% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →