Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Mercer County Community College

Mercer County Community College graduates start modestly at $27,586 but see their earnings jump 27% within four years—reaching nearly $35,000 and outpacing both state and national medians for this degree. That earnings trajectory, combined with exceptionally low debt (just $5,870 versus the national median of $10,950), creates one of the more favorable financial pictures you'll find for a general studies associate degree in New Jersey.

The 60th percentile ranking among New Jersey programs matters here: while Thomas Edison State grads earn significantly more, they're pursuing a very different model (online degree completion for working adults). Among traditional community colleges in the state, Mercer sits comfortably in the middle of the pack for earnings while maintaining debt levels well below typical. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21 means graduates owe roughly two months' salary—manageable by any standard.

For families viewing this as a cost-effective foundation before transferring to a four-year school, or for students entering the workforce directly, the numbers work. The low debt load preserves financial flexibility, and the earnings growth suggests graduates are finding pathways to better-paying roles as they gain experience. Just understand this is a stepping stone credential, not a direct route to high earnings.