Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Community College of Philadelphia

Community College of Philadelphia's Liberal Arts program significantly outperforms both state and national expectations. At $32,697 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 26% more than the Pennsylvania median and rank in the 80th percentile statewide—beating even some four-year programs. The $14,000 median debt sits well below typical Pennsylvania borrowing, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.43 that most bachelor's programs struggle to match. For context, this associate's degree delivers stronger initial outcomes than liberal arts programs at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Eastern University, both four-year institutions.

The earnings trajectory strengthens the case: graduates see a 23% income boost by year four, reaching over $40,000. That's meaningful growth for an associate's degree and suggests these graduates successfully leverage their credential into better positions. Given that 53% of students receive Pell grants, this program appears to serve economically disadvantaged students particularly well, delivering upward mobility without crushing debt loads.

For families weighing a two-year liberal arts path in Pennsylvania, this represents the strongest option in the state. The combination of above-average earnings, modest debt, and consistent growth makes this a low-risk entry point into higher education—especially for students unsure about committing to a four-year program immediately.