Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Boston University

A $26,750 estimated debt load might sound reasonable until you consider that similar liberal arts programs in Massachusetts produce median first-year earnings of just $39,141—barely above the national figure of $36,340. For a school with Boston University's selectivity (11% admission rate, 1473 average SAT), these estimated outcomes based on peer Massachusetts programs suggest a surprising lack of earnings advantage. The limited actual data from comparable schools tells a concerning story: MIT's liberal arts graduates earn $103,135, while even less selective state institutions like Worcester State report $43,996—both figures that dwarf what's typical for this field in Massachusetts.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 isn't catastrophic, but it reflects a fundamental challenge with general studies degrees at any price point. You're paying Boston University's tuition for a credential that, based on similar programs statewide, doesn't command premium compensation. The 18% Pell grant rate suggests most families here are full-pay or taking on significant borrowing for outcomes that may not differ substantially from less expensive Massachusetts options. If your student is academically competitive enough for BU (top 11% of applicants), they're likely competitive for more career-focused programs that leverage the university's reputation more effectively in the job market.