Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Texas Christian University

TCU's general studies graduates face a jarring start at just $28,328 one year out—roughly $10,000 below both the Texas median and national benchmarks for this major. Among Texas schools offering this program, TCU ranks in only the 25th percentile, trailing not just UT Austin but regional competitors like Lamar and Wayland Baptist by $15,000-16,000. For a selective university with an average SAT of 1303 and tuition approaching private school rates, these outcomes warrant serious scrutiny.

The 60% earnings jump by year four to $45,338 improves the picture considerably, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing. However, this still leaves them roughly on par with what peers at other Texas programs earn right out of the gate. The $27,000 debt load is manageable at that year-four salary, but families should question why they're paying premium tuition for below-average early career outcomes when the state offers stronger alternatives at lower cost.

If your child is drawn to TCU's campus culture or specific opportunities within the program, understand you're essentially betting on that long-term growth trajectory while accepting several lean years post-graduation. The data suggests this general studies path doesn't capitalize on TCU's strong reputation the way more focused majors might.