2024 Best Colleges for English Literature

We rigorously analyzed a host of variables to determine what colleges and universities offer the best English Literature programs in America. The list includes 39 programs and you can sort by average salary, debt, acceptance rate and more to hone in on the the best programs for you.

If you’re still wondering whether English Literature is the right field of study for you, check out our guide to majoring in English Literature: what you can do with the major, how much you’ll make, and more.

For the purposes of these rankings we prioritized earnings after graduation 6 years and 10 years out for students that majored in English Literature. Please note that earnings are one metric of success that can be used to judge a English Literature program, but are by no means the best or only option. However, because this variable is provided by the vast majority of universities offering English Literature we used it as the primary method or ordering the best universities for English Literature.

By scrolling all the way through the list you’ll find every college or university that offers a English Literature in America.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Universities offering English Literature Majors and Degrees

What is the best university for majoring in English Literature?

Middlebury College is the best university for majoring in English Literature based on earnings data. On average, graduates from Middlebury College earned an average of $42,682 2 years after graduating.

What is the cheapest university for majoring in English Literature?

SUNY Empire State College is the cheapest university for majoring in English Literature based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $6,985 to attend SUNY Empire State College.

What is the most expensive university for majoring in English Literature?

Bard College is the most expensive university for majoring in English Literature based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $49,906 to attend Bard College.