Est. Earnings (1yr)
$35,025
Est. from KY median (8 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$27,000
Est. from national median (162 programs)

Analysis

Similar programs across Kentucky suggest first-year earnings around $35,000 for liberal arts graduates—essentially matching the state median but trailing the national figure by over a thousand dollars. With estimated debt of $27,000, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77, which falls within the manageable range but leaves little margin for error in a state where wages for this degree already lag behind.

The challenging part is that some Kentucky schools with similar programs report notably higher outcomes. Thomas More grads earn nearly double, while several public universities in the state show earnings in the mid-to-upper $30,000s. Without actual data from Spalding's own graduates, it's impossible to know whether this program performs closer to the state average or to these stronger peers. The 99% admission rate and modest academic profile don't suggest exceptional selectivity, which often correlates with graduate outcomes.

For families considering this path, the estimated figures point to a financially viable but not particularly lucrative start. The debt burden is standard for private schools and shouldn't be crushing, but the projected earnings won't allow for aggressive repayment or much financial flexibility early on. If your child is drawn to liberal arts specifically, comparing Spalding's actual graduate outcomes—once available—against the more transparent public university options in Kentucky would be essential before committing.

Where Spalding University Stands

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

Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (26 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Spalding UniversityLouisville$27,850$35,025*—$27,000*—
Thomas More UniversityCrestview Hills$38,400$62,607*—$29,358*0.47
Northern Kentucky UniversityHighland Heights$10,896$37,602*$45,457$28,750*0.76
Eastern Kentucky UniversityRichmond$10,130$35,958*$33,573$31,000*0.86
Western Kentucky UniversityBowling Green$11,436$35,746*$33,939$28,892*0.81
Murray State UniversityMurray$9,708$34,304*$40,665$28,162*0.82
National Median—$36,340*—$27,000*0.74
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities graduates

Postsecondary Teachers, All Other

All postsecondary teachers not listed separately.

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 Spalding University, approximately 36% 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.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 8 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.