Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at College of Western Idaho

College of Western Idaho's liberal arts associate degree produces graduates who earn more than 75% of similar programs nationwide—a noteworthy achievement for a community college. Starting earnings of $30,424 may seem modest, but they exceed both the national median ($27,248) and edge close to Idaho's median ($29,082) for this field. The debt picture is equally encouraging: at $14,166, graduates owe less than half their first-year earnings, and this debt level sits well below the national average despite being typical for Idaho schools.

The 13% earnings bump to $34,457 by year four suggests graduates are gaining traction in the workforce, though they still trail the state's top performer, Boise State, by a considerable margin. That gap reflects the difference between a two-year and four-year credential. Among Idaho's ten schools offering this program, CWI lands solidly in the middle of the pack—respectable but not leading.

For families seeking an affordable foundation in the liberal arts, this program delivers reasonable value. The low debt burden and above-average earnings make it a practical choice, particularly for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution or who need to work while studying. Just understand that these earnings reflect an associate degree's ceiling, not a bachelor's trajectory.