Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Macomb Community College

Macomb Community College's liberal arts associate degree shows something unusual: graduates nearly double their median national earnings by year four, climbing from $29,791 to $39,937. That 34% earnings growth—while starting above both national and Michigan medians—suggests this program serves as an effective stepping stone rather than a career dead-end.

The $8,250 debt load tells the real story here. At roughly three months of first-year earnings, this ranks below the state median of $12,030 and positions the program in the 60th percentile among Michigan's 49 liberal arts programs. While Oakland Community College graduates earn more immediately ($37,347), the difference narrows as Macomb grads gain experience. For families focused on minimizing debt while keeping transfer options open, that tradeoff tilts heavily in Macomb's favor.

The economics make sense for students who either plan to transfer to a four-year school or use the degree to enter fields where experience matters more than credentials. With a third of students receiving Pell grants, this appears to be exactly what's happening—the program provides affordable access and solid momentum. Just understand you're buying career flexibility and low debt, not immediate high earnings.