Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo's liberal arts program outperforms most similar programs in New Jersey and nationally, placing graduates in the 60th percentile statewide and 69th percentile nationally for earnings. Starting at $40,331 and reaching $47,482 by year four represents solid growth for a generalist degree, though it notably trails the state's top performer (Thomas Edison State University at nearly $50,000). The debt load of $27,625 is right in line with national and state medians, creating a manageable 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio that most graduates should be able to handle.

However, the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. Liberal arts degrees by nature cast a wide net, and individual outcomes will vary dramatically based on what students do with the degree. The 18% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are finding their footing professionally, but these numbers still represent modest middle-class incomes in expensive northern New Jersey.

For families seeking an affordable liberal arts education with better-than-average outcomes, Ramapo delivers reasonable value. The debt is manageable, and graduates are outearning most peers in similar programs. Just understand you're not buying a guaranteed career path—you're buying flexibility and critical thinking skills that students will need to translate into specific opportunities themselves.