Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College's Liberal Arts associate's program delivers below-average starting salaries but shows impressive earning potential over time. While graduates earn $23,966 in their first year—well below the national median of $27,248 and New Jersey's $25,541—their earnings jump 54% to nearly $37,000 by year four, significantly outpacing typical growth in this field.

The debt picture is reasonable at $11,500, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48. Among New Jersey's 29 liberal arts programs, Bergen ranks in the 40th percentile for earnings, placing it in the middle of the pack statewide but trailing stronger performers like Rowan College at Burlington County ($28,376) and Camden County College ($27,655). The program serves a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (34%), indicating good accessibility for lower-income students.

This program works best for students who can afford to start with lower wages while building toward stronger mid-term earnings. The debt load won't be crushing, and the strong earnings growth suggests graduates develop valuable skills over time. However, if your child needs immediate earning power after graduation, other New Jersey community colleges offer notably higher starting salaries in the same field.