Median Earnings (1yr)
$23,784
24th percentile (60th in WY)
Median Debt
$12,000
10% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.50
Manageable
Sample Size
27
Limited data

Analysis

Casper College's Liberal Arts associate degree occupies middle ground in Wyoming—ranking at the 60th percentile statewide—but lags significantly behind national performance. Starting earnings of $23,784 sit nearly $3,500 below the national median for this program, though the debt load of $12,000 is manageable with a 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio. The standout number here is the 50% earnings jump by year four, reaching $35,734, which suggests graduates are either continuing their education or finding better employment opportunities as they establish themselves.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift substantially year to year. Within Wyoming, Northern Wyoming Community College District's graduates earn 61% more in their first year, indicating that location and local employer connections may matter considerably for this broad degree. For families prioritizing affordability, the modest debt is a plus, but they should understand that an associate's in liberal arts typically serves as a stepping stone—either to a bachelor's degree or to entry-level work that takes time to build into a career.

If your child plans to transfer to a four-year school, this program keeps debt low while they figure out their path. If they're hoping to work immediately after graduation, expect a slow start financially, though the strong earnings growth suggests patience may pay off.

Where Casper College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities associates's programs nationally

Casper CollegeOther liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Casper College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Casper College graduates earn $24k, placing them in the 24th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities associates programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Wyoming

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities associates's programs at peer institutions in Wyoming (7 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Casper College$23,784$35,734$12,0000.50
Northern Wyoming Community College District$38,308$50,103$10,2110.27
Northwest College$19,235$26,891$8,0000.42
National Median$27,248—$10,9500.40

Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in Wyoming

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Wyoming schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Northern Wyoming Community College District
Sheridan
$4,830$38,308$10,211
Northwest College
Powell
$4,935$19,235$8,000

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Casper College, approximately 23% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 27 graduates with reported earnings and 37 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.