Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Everett Community College

Everett Community College's Liberal Arts associate's delivers something most programs in this field don't: actual earnings momentum and manageable debt. At $30,993 in the first year, graduates already earn more than 77% of similar programs nationwide, and by year four they're making nearly $40,000—a 28% jump that suggests this degree opens doors rather than closing them.

The debt picture reinforces the value here. At $8,125, borrowing is well below both state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.26. That means graduates owe roughly three months' salary—far less burdensome than the typical associate's degree. While Everett ranks at the 60th percentile among Washington liberal arts programs (behind schools like Spokane Community College and Highline College), it still outperforms most in-state options and costs significantly less to attend than the state average.

For families considering a two-year degree as either a stepping stone to a bachelor's or a way to build foundational skills while working, this program delivers tangible returns. The combination of below-average debt, above-average starting earnings, and consistent salary growth through year four makes this a low-risk entry point into higher education, particularly for students still exploring career options.