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

Liberty's Liberal Arts and Sciences program starts stronger than most—earning in the 79th percentile nationally—but loses ground over time. Graduates earn $42,669 in their first year, well above the national median of $36,340, but by year four that drops to $39,447. Among Virginia's 31 programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile, trailing stronger performers like James Madison ($49,408) and Bridgewater ($46,820), though still above the state median.

The declining earnings pattern deserves attention. While liberal arts graduates often change careers or pursue additional education, that 8% drop suggests graduates may be landing in entry-level roles that don't lead to advancement. The debt load of $25,291 is manageable relative to first-year earnings (0.59 ratio), slightly below both state and national medians, and the large sample size means these numbers are reliable.

For families weighing this against other Virginia options, understand that you're paying for a credential that opens doors initially but may require additional moves—graduate school, career pivots, or strategic job changes—to maintain earning momentum. If your child has a clear post-graduation plan (law school, ministry, teaching credential), this could work. If they're hoping the degree itself charts the course, those top-tier Virginia schools show what stronger trajectories look like.