Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Eastern Kentucky University

Eastern Kentucky University's liberal arts associate program produces earnings that trail both the state median ($31,716 versus $32,263 at year four) and lands in just the 40th percentile among Kentucky programs. More striking: four community colleges in the state deliver significantly better outcomes, with Jefferson and Gateway graduates earning $5,000+ more annually while typically carrying less debt. That's a meaningful gap for families weighing a regional university against community college alternatives for a general studies degree.

The debt picture offers one bright spot—at $14,625, graduates borrow about $3,000 more than the state median but still maintain a manageable 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio. The 20% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests steady career progression, though the absolute numbers remain modest even after that improvement. Keep in mind this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary considerably.

For parents considering this path: if your student needs a general associate degree in Kentucky, the community college options deliver stronger returns at lower cost. This program might make sense as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree at EKU, but as a standalone credential, the numbers don't justify choosing it over the state's community colleges that specialize in these degrees and show better employment outcomes.