Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Paris Junior College

Paris Junior College's Liberal Arts associate degree shows surprisingly strong momentum despite a modest start. Graduates begin at $23,580—below both the Texas median ($27,274) and national average—but grow earnings by 26% within four years to reach nearly $30,000. More importantly, the program keeps debt exceptionally low at $5,750, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.24. That's roughly half the state median debt load, meaning graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden while their earnings accelerate.

The caveat? This program still trails top Texas community colleges significantly. Central Texas College and Austin Community College graduates earn $10,000-16,000 more right out of the gate, and at the 40th percentile statewide, Paris JC sits firmly in the lower half of Texas options. For students who need to stay local or value the low debt load, this works as an affordable stepping stone—particularly if they plan to transfer to a four-year program or continue working their way up in their careers.

The math here favors students who can't afford to take on much debt and are willing to accept slower initial earnings in exchange for flexibility. Just understand you're starting behind peers at stronger community college programs, even if the gap narrows over time.