Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Murray State College

Murray State College's liberal arts associate degree starts at just $23,913 in first-year earnings—well below both Oklahoma's $26,814 median and the national benchmark of $27,248. While the program ranks at the 40th percentile statewide, that still means six in ten Oklahoma liberal arts programs deliver better initial outcomes. The $14,336 debt load is relatively modest, but when you're earning under $24,000, even moderate debt creates financial pressure in those early years.

The silver lining here is genuine: earnings jump 61% by year four to $38,446, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing in the job market. That's a meaningful trajectory that brings earnings well above the typical Oklahoma outcome. However, compare this to Oklahoma Panhandle State's $57,445 for the same degree—more than double Murray State's starting salary—and you see the wide variation even within the state's public college system.

For families weighing an associate degree as a stepping stone to further education, this works. For those expecting the degree itself to launch a career, the first few years will likely be financially challenging. If your child plans to transfer to a four-year program or already has a job lined up, Murray State's affordable approach makes sense. Otherwise, exploring higher-performing options like Oklahoma City Community College might be worth the extra logistics.