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

Chesapeake College manages to deliver something surprisingly rare: a certificate program that costs less than $6,000 while producing earnings above both state and national medians. First-year graduates earn $29,611—better than 65% of similar programs nationwide—while carrying debt that represents just 19% of that initial salary. Among Maryland's 11 schools offering this certificate, Chesapeake sits right at the median for earnings but keeps costs notably lower than the state average of $6,881.

The earnings trajectory shows steady improvement, climbing 24% to $36,729 by year four. For students who need a quick credential or are testing whether college is right for them, this represents a legitimate pathway that doesn't trap them in debt. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests consistent enrollment without red flags.

The practical reality: this certificate won't transform someone's earning potential overnight, but it provides a foundation at minimal financial risk. For students unsure about committing to a full degree, or those needing to start earning quickly while keeping options open, Chesapeake's low-debt model makes this one of the safer bets in liberal arts certificates. Just understand you're buying flexibility and foundation, not a dramatic salary jump.