Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Edmonds College

Edmonds College's Liberal Arts associate program shows an unusual pattern that parents need to understand upfront: graduates start at just $21,520—well below both the state median ($28,025) and national average ($27,248) for this degree. That first-year figure ranks in the bottom quarter statewide. However, four years later, earnings nearly double to $42,323, suggesting many graduates either transfer to four-year programs or develop valuable skills through work experience.

The $12,000 in typical debt is manageable, though slightly above the Washington average for this program. The real question is whether your student plans to continue their education. If this associate degree is a stepping stone to a bachelor's program, the trajectory makes sense—the low initial earnings reflect students still in school or working entry-level jobs while completing their education. If it's a terminal degree, that first year will be financially tight, even with the relatively modest debt load.

The bottom line: this program works best as a transfer pathway rather than a standalone credential. Washington has stronger options if your child needs to enter the workforce immediately with an associate degree—Spokane Community College graduates, for instance, earn $34,583 right away. But if the plan is to continue to a bachelor's degree, Edmonds provides an affordable foundation with debt that won't derail those plans.