Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Lakeland University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 suggests manageable borrowing for a general studies degree, though the figures here require context. Wisconsin's liberal arts programs cluster around $43,700 in first-year earnings based on state data, which puts comparable programs roughly $7,400 ahead of the national median for this field. The estimated $27,000 debt burden matches both the national benchmark and falls slightly below the state median of $29,000, creating a fairly typical financial picture for this credential.

The challenge with general studies degrees isn't the numbers—it's the lack of specificity. While similar Wisconsin programs show graduates earning enough to service their debt comfortably, these degrees don't funnel students into clear career paths the way nursing or accounting do. That $43,700 estimate reflects averages across graduates who may have pursued everything from entry-level business roles to nonprofit work to graduate school preparation. Your child's actual outcome will depend heavily on how they use the degree and what skills or experiences they build alongside it.

For parents considering this path: the financial framework appears sound based on peer programs, but treat this as an investment in building a foundation rather than accessing a specific profession. The debt load won't be crushing if your child graduates on time, but the degree itself won't open obvious doors. What matters more is whether Lakeland provides the mentoring, internship connections, or specialized coursework that helps turn a generalist credential into a competitive advantage.