Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at College of Lake County

College of Lake County's liberal arts associate degree punches well above its weight class. With first-year earnings of $33,413—placing it in the 88th percentile nationally—this program delivers outcomes that surpass what most community colleges manage with similar degrees. The $6,687 median debt is exceptionally low, meaning graduates owe just 20% of their first-year salary, one of the best debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find anywhere.

Within Illinois, this program sits at the 60th percentile, which sounds modest until you realize it's competing against 55 programs and trails only a handful of standout community colleges. More importantly, graduates see strong earnings progression, reaching over $40,000 by year four—a 20% increase that suggests this degree opens doors to career advancement rather than dead-end jobs. For a two-year liberal arts degree, that trajectory is impressive.

The combination of minimal debt and above-average earning potential makes this a smart foundation for students who need to keep costs low while maintaining solid career prospects. Whether your child plans to transfer to a four-year school or enter the workforce directly, they'll have financial breathing room that graduates from most comparable programs simply don't get.