Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University's Liberal Arts program produces graduates earning $29,426 in their first year—significantly below both the state median of $42,107 and the national median of $36,340. Among Illinois programs, this ranks in just the 10th percentile, meaning nine out of ten similar programs in the state deliver better immediate outcomes. The $30,839 in median debt roughly equals that first year's entire salary, creating immediate financial pressure for graduates. Even nearby public institution Northeastern Illinois University sees its graduates earning $43,000—nearly 50% more out of the gate.

The notable bright spot is earnings growth: graduates see their income jump to $48,131 by year four, a 64% increase that suggests the degree does eventually provide career mobility. However, this still lags behind what many graduates from other Illinois liberal arts programs earn from day one. With nearly half of NIU students receiving Pell grants, many families here are counting on immediate employability to justify the investment.

For families considering this program, the math is challenging: your graduate will likely start well below what peers at other state schools earn, carrying debt that will take years of that lower salary to manage. If your student needs income stability right after graduation—especially if they're first-generation or financially supporting family—stronger-earning programs exist throughout Illinois at similar or lower debt levels.