Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at State Fair Community College

State Fair Community College's associate degree in liberal arts produces graduates earning slightly below Missouri's median for this program—landing in just the 40th percentile statewide. While first-year earnings of $26,386 trail nearby competitors like Three Rivers College and Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City by roughly $2,000, the more encouraging picture emerges over time: graduates see 22% earnings growth by year four, reaching $32,149. That's solid progression for an associate degree, though it doesn't fully close the gap with stronger in-state alternatives.

The financial burden here is manageable. At $10,500 in debt—about $1,500 above the Missouri median but roughly in line with national norms—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40. That translates to roughly five months of gross income, which most students can handle. With a third of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves a population seeking an affordable pathway to higher education.

The bottom line: This is a reasonable choice for students needing a low-cost associate degree in Missouri, but not the strongest option in the state. Families should compare outcomes at Three Rivers, East Central, or Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, where graduates typically earn $1,500-$2,000 more right out of the gate. The modest debt keeps this program viable, but if your student has access to one of those higher-performing alternatives at similar cost, that's worth serious consideration.