Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Century College

Century College's Liberal Arts program outperforms 95% of similar programs nationally, with first-year earnings of $38,376—far above the national median of $27,248 for associate-level liberal arts graduates. That's impressive context, though it's worth noting that within Minnesota specifically, this program lands in the 60th percentile, suggesting the state generally does well with these degrees. Still, Century holds its own against top Minnesota programs, trailing only Winona State and Inver Hills among the state's leading liberal arts options.

The debt picture adds to the appeal: at $14,264, graduates carry slightly more than the national median but pay it off quickly given the strong earnings. The 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, and solid income growth to $42,912 by year four gives graduates breathing room. For a two-year liberal arts degree—often criticized as directionless—these outcomes show real labor market value.

The bottom line: this is a strong choice for a transfer-focused associate degree in Minnesota. Century graduates enter the workforce earning substantially more than liberal arts peers nationally, with debt levels that won't derail their financial futures. The one-third Pell Grant rate indicates this pathway works for students across income levels.