Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Texarkana College

Texarkana College graduates with an associate's in liberal arts start behind their Texas peers but show something encouraging: their earnings jump 33% by year four, rising from $23,458 to $31,283. That growth trajectory suggests graduates are landing progressively better opportunities, even if the initial placement lags. Among Texas liberal arts programs, this ranks at the 40th percentile—middle of the pack in a competitive field that includes schools where graduates earn $38,000-$40,000 right out of the gate.

The debt picture is actually more manageable than it first appears. At $12,957, it sits below both national and state norms (beating 71% of programs nationwide). With earnings growth reaching $31,000 by year four, the debt burden becomes increasingly reasonable. However, parents should note that starting salary of $23,458 will make those first couple of years tight—this isn't a degree that immediately pays its way.

For families prioritizing affordability and needing that associate's credential, Texarkana delivers a cost-effective path with improving prospects. But if financial security matters from day one, programs like Central Texas College or Austin Community College start graduates at $15,000+ more annually. The question is whether you're willing to bet on that upward trajectory rather than banking on higher initial earnings.