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Best Value English Language and Literature Colleges in Iowa

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

University of Northern Iowa delivers the most affordable English Literature education in Iowa at just $14,609 net cost while generating $35,060 in median earnings. This combination creates strong return on investment for students entering a job market where companies like Principal Financial and Allstate Insurance value strong communication skills. The earnings spread across Iowa's 20 programs ranges dramatically from $21,850 to $40,188, with private colleges like Loras commanding higher costs but also producing the state's top-earning graduates. Public universities dominate the value equation, with UNI and Iowa State both keeping net costs below $19,000. Iowa's low cost of living amplifies these advantages, allowing English graduates to build careers in the state's growing insurance and financial services sectors where written communication drives business success. The state's acceptance rates average above 80% at most institutions, making quality English programs accessible to students across different academic backgrounds.
27
Programs
$14,609 – $30,042
Net Price Range
$29,764
Avg. Program Earnings
57.9%
Avg. Graduation Rate

27 English Language and Literature, General Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $14,609 $35,060 $9,728 68.9% 95.0%
2 $21,057 $40,188 $38,298 69.9% 89.8%
3 $15,608 $29,141 $64,862 87.5% 10.8%
4 $18,165 $29,685 $10,497 75.5% 90.2%
5 $22,231 $32,029 $46,212 65.7% 89.1%
6 $23,250 $29,685 $40,065 41.1% 85.1%
7 $21,398 $26,894 $10,964 73.1% 86.0%
8 $25,079 $23,340 $50,634 71.7% 79.3%
9 $25,635 $21,850 $50,320 75.0% 75.3%
10 $23,435 $39,070 55.9% 75.3%
11 $22,115 $28,750 29.2% 57.7%
12 $23,519 $35,300 63.6% 87.3%
13 $22,750 $35,598 62.8% 73.9%
14 $23,172 $19,000 41.5% 54.2%
15 $21,683 $25,220 29.0% 73.9%
16 $22,604 $51,040 66.8% 97.5%
17 $21,590 $35,534 49.4%
18 $23,169 $38,190 52.8% 70.6%
19 $18,225 $16,530 17.6% 94.3%
20 $21,616 $33,450 55.8% 98.4%
21 $15,975 $33,220 38.3% 74.5%
22 $30,042 $49,944 77.3% 67.2%
23 $25,383 $35,960 65.3% 87.7%
24 $19,155 $52,576 59.0%
25 $20,068 $39,600 54.9% 84.8%
26 $22,353 $20,988 69.2% 79.2%
27 $18,321 $40,190 47.3% 77.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Northern Iowa the top value for English Literature students?

UNI combines the lowest net cost in Iowa at $14,609 with strong median earnings of $35,060. The university maintains a 69% graduation rate while accepting 95% of applicants. Students graduate with manageable debt averaging $21,668, creating favorable loan-to-income ratios for early career professionals.

How do public and private college outcomes compare for English majors in Iowa?

Public universities offer significantly lower costs, with UNI at $14,609 and Iowa State at $18,165 net price. Private colleges like Loras produce higher earnings at $40,188 but cost $21,057 net. Grinnell College stands out with a $15,608 net cost despite its $64,862 sticker price due to generous financial aid.

Is the earnings gap between Iowa English programs significant?

Yes, median earnings vary from $21,850 at Luther College to $40,188 at Loras College, creating an $18,338 spread. This difference reflects varying alumni networks, geographic placement, and program focus. Even mid-range earners at $29,000-$32,000 can build solid careers given Iowa's low living costs.

Does graduation rate correlate with program value in Iowa English departments?

Grinnell leads with an 87.5% graduation rate but accepts only 11% of applicants. More accessible options like UNI achieve 69% graduation rates with 95% acceptance. Several private colleges show concerning patterns, with William Penn graduating just 29% of students despite higher costs.

Where do Iowa English graduates find employment opportunities?

Iowa's insurance center creates demand for English graduates at companies like Principal Financial and Allstate. The state's agricultural publications, marketing agencies, and educational institutions provide additional career paths. Manufacturing companies like John Deere also hire English majors for technical writing and communications roles.

More English Language and Literature, General Rankings

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All English Language and Literature, General Programs Best Colleges in Iowa Best English Language and Literature, General in Iowa

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.