Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Kent State University at Ashtabula

Kent State Ashtabula's liberal arts program punches above its weight, placing graduates in the 73rd percentile nationally for earnings—well ahead of the $36,340 national median. At $41,205 in first-year earnings, graduates here match what those from Kent State's other regional campuses earn, and they're earning nearly as much as Ohio State graduates just four years out. Within Ohio's competitive landscape of 61 similar programs, this ranks solidly in the 60th percentile.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $31,963, borrowing sits in the 10th percentile nationally—meaning 90% of comparable programs saddle students with more debt. This translates to a manageable 0.78 debt-to-earnings ratio, below the concerning 1.0 threshold. For a program serving a substantial number of Pell-eligible students (34%), these outcomes suggest effective support for students who need it most.

The modest 5% earnings growth to year four is typical for liberal arts degrees, which often serve as launching pads for varied career paths rather than direct vocational training. For families weighing a regional campus option against flagship or private alternatives, Ashtabula delivers comparable outcomes at considerably less financial risk. This represents solid value: above-average earnings potential without the debt burden that typically accompanies liberal arts degrees.