Median Earnings (1yr)
$33,705
36th percentile (60th in LA)
Median Debt
$26,541
2% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.79
Manageable
Sample Size
244
Adequate data

Analysis

Among Louisiana's 19 liberal arts programs, Southeastern Louisiana University lands at the 60th percentile—outperforming the state median of $32,688 while coming in below the national median of $36,340. For families focused on in-state options, this means your graduate will likely earn more than their peers at most other Louisiana schools, though they'll trail behind ULM and McNeese by about $2,000 annually. The debt picture is manageable: at $26,541, graduates owe less than both state and national medians, and the 0.79 debt-to-earnings ratio means most borrowers can realistically handle their monthly payments.

The 12% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates find their footing in the job market, moving from $33,705 to $37,847. This isn't dramatic growth, but it's steady progression in a field known for varied career paths. The robust sample size gives these numbers real weight—you're seeing consistent outcomes, not a statistical fluke from a handful of graduates.

For Louisiana families, this represents a solid middle-ground choice: you're getting better-than-average outcomes within the state at a price point that won't sink your graduate in debt. If your student is committed to the liberal arts, this program delivers reasonable value, though checking whether they qualify for in-state tuition elsewhere (particularly at ULM) would be worth the comparison.

Where Southeastern Louisiana University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors's programs nationally

Southeastern Louisiana UniversityOther liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Southeastern Louisiana University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Southeastern Louisiana University graduates earn $34k, placing them in the 36th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (19 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Southeastern Louisiana University$33,705$37,847$26,5410.79
University of Louisiana at Monroe$35,951$44,375$26,8440.75
McNeese State University$35,282$36,581$27,0000.77
Louisiana State University-Shreveport$34,855$35,807$34,5000.99
Northwestern State University of Louisiana$32,688$43,938$31,0000.95
Louisiana State University-Alexandria$32,463$36,032$26,0000.80
National Median$36,340—$27,0000.74

Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in Louisiana

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Louisiana schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe
$9,190$35,951$26,844
McNeese State University
Lake Charles
$8,460$35,282$27,000
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Shreveport
$7,327$34,855$34,500
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches
$8,864$32,688$31,000
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
Alexandria
$7,050$32,463$26,000

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 Southeastern Louisiana University, approximately 33% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 244 graduates with reported earnings and 282 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.