Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Montclair State University

Starting at just $22,201 one year after graduation—placing this program in the bottom 10% both nationally and statewide—Montclair State's Liberal Arts degree faces a significant early earnings problem. That's $16,000 below the New Jersey median for this program and well behind in-state alternatives like Thomas Edison State ($49,779) and Rowan ($43,486). With $26,000 in debt against those first-year earnings, graduates face a challenging initial financial position.

The dramatic turnaround by year four deserves attention: earnings more than double to $43,121, finally surpassing both state and national benchmarks. This 94% growth rate suggests graduates may be landing entry-level positions that don't require the degree initially, then transitioning into roles where their credentials matter. However, this pattern means students should plan for three lean years after graduation—a reality that's harder to navigate for families without financial cushions (notably, 44% of Montclair students receive Pell grants).

For families considering this program, understand that you're looking at a delayed payoff rather than a poor investment. The debt load is reasonable, and long-term outcomes appear decent. But that brutal first year—earning less than many jobs that don't require a degree—means your student will need either family support or a concrete plan for how they'll cover living expenses while their career develops. If immediate post-graduation earnings matter for your family's finances, look at Rowan or Stockton instead.