Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Saint Leo University
Bachelor's Degree
saintleo.eduAnalysis
Saint Leo's liberal arts program produces better-than-average outcomes for a degree field often criticized for weak earnings potential. First-year graduates earn $40,874—beating the national median by $4,500 and ranking in the 72nd percentile nationally. Among Florida's 41 liberal arts programs, it outperforms the state median by $5,500, placing graduates firmly in the middle of the pack statewide. While it trails flagship programs like Miami and UCF, it matches Florida State dollar-for-dollar.
The financial equation looks particularly solid here. At $30,624, student debt runs about $3,000 above the state median but falls in the 20th percentile nationally—meaning 80% of similar programs leave students with heavier debt loads. The 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than one year's salary, a manageable threshold for a liberal arts degree. Steady 13% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates find their footing rather than hitting an early ceiling.
For parents worried about the practical value of a humanities education, Saint Leo offers a reasonable middle ground: higher-than-average earnings with below-average debt in a field where those combinations are rare. The university serves a significant population of Pell-eligible students (37%) while still delivering earnings that compete with more selective Florida institutions.
Where Saint Leo University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Saint Leo University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Leo University | $40,874 | $45,963 | +12% |
| University of Miami | $50,614 | $51,653 | +2% |
| University of Central Florida | $48,391 | $47,044 | -3% |
| University of South Florida | $45,230 | $45,069 | -0% |
| Nova Southeastern University | $28,890 | $42,304 | +46% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Saint Leo UniversitySaint Leo | $28,360 | $40,874 | $45,963 | $30,624 | 0.75 |
 University of MiamiCoral Gables | $59,926 | $50,614 | $51,653 | $28,590 | 0.56 |
 University of Central FloridaOrlando | $6,368 | $48,391 | $47,044 | $15,135 | 0.31 |
 Barry UniversityMiami | $33,450 | $46,015 | $40,411 | $46,429 | 1.01 |
 University of South FloridaTampa | $6,410 | $45,230 | $45,069 | $30,676 | 0.68 |
 Florida State UniversityTallahassee | $5,656 | $35,361 | $37,699 | $21,349 | 0.60 |
| National Median | — | $36,340 | — | $27,000 | 0.74 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Saint Leo University, approximately 37% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.