Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate) at Blackburn College

Is a general legal studies degree worth $27,000 in debt when comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $39,000? That 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio falls into workable territory—graduates could theoretically pay off loans within a few years on the standard repayment plan. But here's the catch: these are estimates drawn from peer programs nationwide, not actual outcomes from Blackburn's graduates, so you're making a financial decision with limited visibility into this specific program's track record.

The field itself presents challenges. Legal studies bachelor's degrees occupy an awkward middle ground—more specialized than general liberal arts, but without the credentials needed for attorney positions. Graduates typically pursue paralegal work, compliance roles, or administrative positions in legal settings, fields where salaries can vary widely based on location and employer type. Carlinville's rural setting may limit local opportunities, potentially requiring graduates to relocate for better-paying positions.

Given Blackburn's 54% Pell grant population, many families here are taking on this debt with fewer financial cushions. Without actual outcomes data for this program, you're essentially betting that Blackburn's version performs similarly to the national median. If your student is considering law school eventually, understand this degree won't reduce that timeline—most law schools don't require specific undergraduate majors. If they want direct employment in legal services, ensure they're interning aggressively and building connections beyond central Illinois.