Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Edison State Community College

Edison State's Liberal Arts associate degree earns above the national average but falls short within Ohio, where graduates from this program typically earn $33,847 at the median. At $31,496 in first-year earnings, this program lands at the 40th percentile statewide—meaning six in ten similar Ohio programs produce better early outcomes. The gap widens when you look at top performers: Marion Technical's Liberal Arts grads earn 65% more right out of the gate.

The relatively modest $12,000 debt load provides some cushion, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38. Earnings do grow to $33,251 by year four, nearly matching the state median, though this 6% gain suggests graduates largely tread water rather than accelerate their careers. The program delivers better value than most Liberal Arts programs nationally (80th percentile), but that comparison matters less if your child will be competing for jobs in the Ohio market.

For families prioritizing low debt over maximum earning potential, Edison State offers a workable path forward. Just understand that this is a baseline credential in Ohio's community college landscape—solid enough to avoid financial disaster, but unlikely to provide much competitive advantage in the state's job market.