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

Liberal arts programs in Virginia typically produce first-year earnings around $41,400, which is where comparable programs suggest Ferrum graduates land—right at the state median but below what students earn at James Madison ($49,400) or Bridgewater ($46,800). With an estimated $26,000 in debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 sits in manageable territory, though whether that's actually worth it depends on how much Ferrum's open-admission environment translates to genuine degree completion for students who might struggle elsewhere.

The concerning element here is less about the numbers than what they represent: a general studies degree that leads to mid-30s earnings nationally, combined with Ferrum's 990 average SAT and 47% Pell population. Students choosing this path should understand they're paying for access and support rather than exceptional post-graduation outcomes. Similar programs across Virginia produce roughly the same results, suggesting the credential itself—not the institution—drives the earning power.

For families considering Ferrum, the key question is whether this specific program offers something beyond the degree: strong advising, career services, or networks that justify the cost when students could potentially achieve similar outcomes at less expensive public options. The estimated figures suggest a standard trajectory for Virginia liberal arts graduates, but without knowing Ferrum's actual completion rates and job placement specifics, you're essentially betting on average outcomes in a field where average means modest financial returns.