Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Lower Columbia College

Lower Columbia College's associate degree in Liberal Arts delivers better-than-average outcomes within a field where expectations need to be realistic. Earning $30,845 in the first year places graduates well above the national median of $27,248 and solidly in the 77th percentile nationally. Within Washington state, it ranks in the 60th percentile—respectable for a community college program, though behind schools like Spokane Community College and Highline College. The $9,578 debt load sits just below Washington's median and keeps the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.31.

The modest 5% earnings growth to $32,507 by year four reflects a reality of liberal arts associate degrees: they're often stepping stones rather than direct career credentials. Many graduates either continue their education or enter fields where earnings plateau quickly. For a student planning to transfer to a four-year program, this represents an affordable foundation. For someone entering the workforce directly, the first-year earnings are livable but won't provide much upward momentum without additional skills or credentials.

If your child plans to use this as a transfer pathway, the low debt makes it financially sound. If they intend to stop at the associate level, understand they're looking at wages in the low $30,000s—workable in Longview's cost of living, but limiting long-term financial flexibility.