Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Parker University

Parker's Liberal Arts program sits right in the middle of what similar Texas programs typically produce—around $39,000 in first-year earnings with just over $27,000 in debt. That 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within a manageable range, though it's worth noting that nearly half the students here receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are already stretching financially.

The challenge with general studies degrees is inherent to the credential itself, not unique to Parker. When peer Texas programs show outcomes ranging from $39,000 to over $50,000, the variance likely reflects what students do with the degree—their specific coursework, internships, and first jobs—more than the institutional name on the diploma. The estimated figures here track with both state and national medians for this field, which means there's nothing alarming but also no standout advantage.

For families considering this investment, the question becomes whether this broad bachelor's degree serves as a foundation for graduate school, professional certification, or immediate employment in a specific direction. At $27,000 in estimated debt, it's a moderate financial commitment that won't crush entry-level earnings, but it also won't deliver the salary boost that more specialized degrees often provide. The degree's value will depend almost entirely on how your student leverages it after graduation.