Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College

That remarkable 117% earnings jump tells you everything about Truman College's liberal arts program—it's a launchpad, not a destination. While first-year earnings of $19,982 land this program in just the 5th percentile nationally, graduates who stick with their education or career development see earnings more than double to $43,357 by year four. The modest $9,500 debt load means students aren't betting the farm on this trajectory, keeping the immediate financial risk manageable.

The catch is that initial year. Even within Illinois, where this program ranks at the 25th percentile, Truman graduates start well behind peers at other community colleges—some of whom are earning $34,000+ right out of the gate. That gap suggests many students are either continuing their education or building experience in entry-level positions before their liberal arts foundation translates into better-paying work. For families banking on immediate income after graduation, this timeline could create financial strain.

Bottom line: This associate's degree works best as part of a longer strategy rather than a quick path to earnings. The low debt keeps doors open for transfer students or those willing to invest a few years building their careers. But if your child needs to start earning substantial income immediately after graduation, other Illinois community colleges deliver that faster—though none show quite this dramatic growth curve for persistent graduates.