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

Is a general studies bachelor's worth $27,000 in debt when first-year earnings hover around $36,000? For Martin University's Liberal Arts program, the figures suggest a manageable but unexceptional financial outcome. Based on comparable programs across Indiana, graduates can expect to earn slightly below the national median for this degree, while taking on debt right at the national average. The 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable territory—not great, but far from unaffordable. With two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are counting on financial aid to close gaps, making even moderate debt loads significant.

The challenge lies in Indiana's competitive landscape. Top programs at Notre Dame and Indiana Wesleyan produce first-year earnings nearly $10,000 higher, though those schools likely come with different price tags and admission standards. Martin serves a different population, but the earnings gap matters when debt levels are similar. A general studies degree's flexibility can be an asset or a liability depending on how graduates leverage it—those who parlay it into professional roles or graduate school may see better returns than the early numbers suggest.

For families weighing this option: the estimated financials point to a degree that won't bury graduates in debt but won't launch them into high earnings either. If Martin's mission and accessibility align with your student's needs, the investment appears workable, but expect a multi-year payback period and recognize that career trajectory will depend heavily on what comes after graduation.