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

A Liberal Arts degree from Northeastern State University faces a rocky start but shows promising momentum. First-year graduates earn $31,794—landing in just the 25th percentile both nationally and among Oklahoma programs. That's roughly $6,000 below what peers earn at other Oklahoma schools and $4,500 below the national median. However, by year four, earnings jump 30% to $41,260, essentially closing the gap with better-performing programs.

The debt load of $30,582 is higher than both state and national medians for this degree, creating a nearly 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio in that crucial first year. This means graduates start behind financially, though the strong earnings growth suggests they can catch up. Still, when nearby Cameron University's graduates earn $43,865 and University of Oklahoma produces $45,726 earners in the same field, the question becomes whether starting $12,000 behind is worth whatever non-financial benefits Northeastern State offers.

For families prioritizing immediate post-graduation earnings or those concerned about debt burden during the lean early years, this program's trajectory requires patience. The 99% admission rate and 42% Pell grant population suggest NSU serves students who might not have other four-year options—but those students should understand they're accepting a tougher financial start than they'd face at other Oklahoma public universities offering this degree.