Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at East Tennessee State University

At $32,474 in first-year earnings, ETSU's general studies program falls short of both the Tennessee median ($37,437) and national average ($36,340), landing in just the 40th percentile among Tennessee programs. That's a meaningful gap—roughly $5,000 less than what graduates of similar programs earn at Middle Tennessee State or Tennessee State University. The modest 14% earnings growth to $37,163 by year four helps narrow this gap, but still leaves graduates trailing other state options.

The $25,000 median debt is at least lower than both state and national averages, which keeps the financial picture from becoming dire. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77, graduates face a manageable but not comfortable burden—it will take discipline to pay down those loans on an entry-level salary in the low $30,000s. The combination of below-average earnings and moderate debt means this program delivers less financial value than most Tennessee alternatives.

For families considering ETSU's accessibility (87% admission rate) and relatively low debt burden, this program could work if your student has clear plans to pursue graduate education or specific career paths where the degree serves as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential. Otherwise, comparable programs at other Tennessee public universities offer notably better earning potential without significantly more debt.