Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Bemidji State University

Bemidji State's Liberal Arts program faces a significant hurdle: while similar programs across Minnesota report first-year earnings around $53,000, national peer programs—the basis for this estimate—suggest only $36,000. That's a $17,000 gap that should concern anyone considering this route. With estimated debt of $27,000, you're looking at nearly nine months of gross earnings just to cover what was borrowed, and that's before taxes or living expenses enter the picture.

The Minnesota context makes this especially stark. Compare these estimated figures to reported outcomes at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities ($57,000) or Metropolitan State ($49,000), and the difference becomes impossible to ignore. Even allowing for variation in how general studies programs are structured, this estimated earnings level suggests graduates may struggle to gain the same traction in Minnesota's job market as peers from other state programs.

Here's what this means practically: before committing, you need to understand why actual data isn't available for Bemidji's program—small cohorts can mean anything from a new offering to declining enrollment—and whether the program provides the professional networks and career placement support that could close that earnings gap. These estimated figures suggest a program that may not compete well with alternatives in the state, but only direct conversations with recent alumni and career services can tell you if that's actually the case here.