Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Southwest Tennessee Community College

Southwest Tennessee Community College's liberal arts associate degree outpaces both state and national expectations—a notable achievement for what's often dismissed as a low-value credential. With first-year earnings of $28,980 rising to $32,601 by year four, graduates here earn more than 60% of comparable programs in Tennessee and exceed the national median by nearly $1,700. That's real money for Memphis-area students, many from families where 42% receive Pell grants and every thousand dollars matters.

The debt picture reinforces this program's accessibility: $8,750 matches the state median and sits well below the national figure. That 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly three months of their first year's salary—manageable territory that should allow most to stay current on payments while building toward whatever comes next, whether that's entering the workforce or transferring to complete a bachelor's degree.

The earnings trajectory tells you what you need to know about this program's function. That 13% wage growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are finding stable work and advancing, even with a foundational credential. For Memphis families weighing community college options, Southwest Tennessee delivers better returns than most Tennessee competitors while keeping debt modest—a practical launchpad rather than a financial trap.