Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at George Fox University

A liberal arts bachelor's that costs $27,000 in estimated debt—right at the national median—and produces first-year earnings around $38,000 based on comparable Oregon programs lands squarely in "financially neutral" territory. The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 suggests graduates would owe roughly three-quarters of their first-year salary, which is manageable but not generous, particularly for a broad field where career trajectories vary widely depending on what students do after graduation.

What complicates the picture is George Fox's very high acceptance rate and relatively modest average SAT score, combined with debt levels that match much more selective institutions. Similar Oregon programs at the state universities show the same earnings pattern, but George Fox's private school price tag means students here are paying significantly more for outcomes that peer institutions deliver at lower cost. The 27% Pell grant rate suggests many students are financing a substantial portion of this degree.

For families considering this program, the math works only if George Fox's smaller size, faith-based environment, or specific connections justify the premium over Oregon's public options. If your student is drawn to liberal arts but uncertain about their specific career path, starting at a less expensive institution would preserve flexibility without the pressure of mid-$20,000s in debt from day one.