Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Southwestern Christian College

The first-year earnings figure of $13,321 is genuinely alarming—less than half the Texas median for associate-level liberal arts programs. This places graduates in the bottom 10% statewide and 5th percentile nationally, falling roughly $14,000 short of what typical Texas community colleges deliver for the same credential. Even accounting for the small sample size (under 30 graduates), the gap is too wide to dismiss as statistical noise.

The $12,000 debt load itself isn't excessive by national standards, but paired with these earnings, it creates an immediate financial squeeze. Graduates would need to dedicate 90% of their first-year income just to repay their loans—an unsustainable burden. Compare this to nearby Howard College or Austin Community College, where similar programs lead to earnings approaching $40,000. The institution serves a predominantly low-income student population (91% receive Pell grants), making weak employment outcomes particularly consequential for families who can least afford a financial setback.

Given the stark earnings disadvantage and the availability of stronger community college alternatives throughout Texas, parents should seriously reconsider this investment. If your child is set on this institution for religious or cultural reasons, understand that the financial foundation this degree provides is substantially weaker than what accessible, affordable alternatives can offer.