Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at George C Wallace State Community College-Selma

The concerning reality here is that recent graduates earn just $18,355 in their first year—barely above poverty level and ranking in the bottom 5% nationally for this program. Even among Alabama's liberal arts programs, this falls well below the state median of $24,375. While earnings do jump 63% by year four to nearly $30,000, that's simply catching up to where most comparable programs start.

The modest debt load of $8,750 is the silver lining, keeping this program from being a complete financial disaster. However, context matters: other Alabama community colleges like Chattahoochee Valley and Jefferson State produce associate degree holders in this field who earn $28,000-$28,500 right out of the gate—a $10,000 annual advantage that compounds over time. The small sample size (under 30 graduates tracked) adds uncertainty, but the pattern is hard to ignore.

For families considering this program, understand that you're looking at potentially several years of sub-living-wage earnings before reaching income levels that other local options deliver immediately. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend this specific campus, exploring other Alabama community colleges offering the same degree would likely provide better economic outcomes from day one.