Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at San Francisco State University

San Francisco State's Liberal Arts program tells a story of dramatic income growth, but parents need to understand what that first year looks like. At $32,112, recent graduates earn about 15% below the national median for this major—though they're actually ahead of California's state median. The concerning part: these graduates exit with unusually high debt. At the 95th percentile nationally for debt, this means only 5% of similar programs nationwide leave students with heavier loans. The 0.48 debt-to-earnings ratio in that crucial first year translates to roughly half a year's salary owed, which can strain budgets in expensive San Francisco.

The silver lining is meaningful: earnings jump 53% by year four to $49,182, outpacing both national and state medians at that point. Among California's 80 programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack in a competitive state market. The 96% admission rate and high Pell grant enrollment (41%) suggest SFSU serves students who might not have access to more selective alternatives, making that earnings trajectory particularly valuable.

The practical calculation: if your child can manage that lean first year—likely requiring roommates, side work, or family support in one of America's priciest cities—the four-year outlook becomes reasonable. But families banking on immediate post-graduation financial independence should look elsewhere. This program rewards patience more than it delivers quick returns.