Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Cal Poly Pomona's Liberal Arts program costs students nearly $14,000 in debt to earn just $25,168 in their first year—creating a concerning debt-to-earnings ratio that leaves graduates financially vulnerable right out of college. While the program ranks in the bottom 5th percentile nationally for first-year earnings, its position improves slightly within California, landing at the 25th percentile among the state's 80 programs. That's still well below the $31,802 California median.

The earnings trajectory does improve dramatically—jumping 72% to $43,398 by year four—which eventually puts graduates in a more stable position. However, the combination of below-average starting pay and higher-than-typical debt (95th percentile nationally) means the first few years after graduation will likely require careful budgeting or additional financial support. Nearly half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting many families are already operating on tight budgets.

For parents, the key question is whether your student can weather those difficult early years. If they'll need to start repaying loans immediately or contribute to household expenses, this program's initial earnings make that challenging. The eventual $43,000 salary is respectable, but it doesn't compensate for the tough financial start. Unless your child has a clear plan for the lean years—whether that's living at home, pursuing graduate school with deferred payments, or having family financial support—consider how the delayed financial stability might affect other life goals.