Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Explore the dynamic linguistic and literary traditions of the Philippines through a rigorous academic lens. This program offers an in-depth examination of the modern Filipino and Tagalog languages, emphasizing their historical evolution, cultural significance, and practical applications across diverse professional domains.
- Philology: Investigate the origins, development, and structural features of the Filipino and Tagalog languages, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and historical linguistic change.
- Literary Analysis: Study canonical and contemporary works in Filipino and Tagalog literature, examining narrative techniques, thematic depth, and socio-political contexts.
- Language in Professional Contexts: Apply linguistic proficiency to real-world settings such as business communication, technical writing, and public service, enhancing cross-cultural effectiveness.
- Science and Technology Communication: Develop skills in translating and creating technical content in Tagalog, supporting accessibility and clarity in STEM fields.
- Cultural and Sociolinguistic Perspectives: Analyze the role of language in shaping national identity, social dynamics, and intergenerational transmission within Filipino communities.
Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature degrees, including Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary and Interpreters and Translators. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 74,530 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary 25-1124 | $77,010 | $47,090 - $134,960 | 21,170 | N/A |
| Interpreters and Translators 27-3091 | $59,440 | $35,630 - $99,830 | 53,360 | $28.58 |
Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $45,060 in Louisiana to $89,920 in California—a 100% difference. The highest-paying states include California, New York, and Rhode Island. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 74,530 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 2 institutions offering Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature is found at University of Hawaii (UHM), Manoa (9 graduates), and City College of San Francisco (CCSF) (3 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 12 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Hawaii (UHM) |
Bachelor's
|
9 | Honolulu, Hawaii | Public | manoa.hawaii.edu |
| City College of San Francisco (CCSF) |
Other Award
|
3 | San Francisco, California | Public | ccsf.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature programs
How much can I earn with a Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature degree?
Salaries for Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature graduates vary by role and location. Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary earn a median of $77,010 annually, while Interpreters and Translators earn around $59,440. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in California average $89,920 compared to $45,060 in Louisiana. Approximately 74,530 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature programs?
Currently 2 accredited institutions offer Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include University of Hawaii (UHM), Manoa (9 graduates), City College of San Francisco (CCSF) (3 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 3 in 2010 to 12 in 2023-24. This represents a 300% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Filipino and Tagalog Language and Literature degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary, Interpreters and Translators, . Related occupations employ approximately 74,530 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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