Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Bowling Green State University-Firelands

Here's the hard truth: Bowling Green State University-Firelands' liberal arts associate degree ranks in the bottom 10% of similar programs in Ohio. While first-year earnings of $23,388 are low compared to the state median of $33,847, what's particularly troubling is that nearby Ohio University satellite campuses report first-year earnings around $36,942—nearly $13,000 more for the same degree type. Even among associate programs nationally, this lands in just the 22nd percentile.

The positive story here is debt management and earnings trajectory. At $18,500, graduates carry significantly less debt than the state median ($17,500 is close), and crucially, far less than the national median of $10,950—landing in the 5th percentile nationally. That 0.79 debt-to-earnings ratio, while not ideal initially, becomes more manageable as earnings jump 56% to $36,535 by year four. That growth pattern suggests graduates are either advancing in their careers or using the degree as intended—as a stepping stone to further education or better opportunities.

The verdict: This program works financially only if your child has a clear plan. If they're transferring to complete a bachelor's degree elsewhere, the low debt load is an asset. But if this is the terminal degree, they'll start well behind Ohio peers, and the four-year catch-up still leaves them near the state median at best. Compare actual transfer agreements and four-year outcomes before committing.