Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at The College of the Florida Keys

This small Key West college punches above its weight for a general studies associate's degree. Graduates start at $30,933—beating 77% of similar programs nationally and landing in the 60th percentile among Florida's 55 schools offering this degree. That's notable considering general studies programs typically struggle to differentiate themselves. The $7,285 median debt is lower than both the state median ($9,250) and national figure ($10,950), creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.24. Students essentially borrow less than three months' salary.

The 21% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates aren't trapped in entry-level positions. While top Florida programs like Saint Leo push past $40,000, College of the Florida Keys delivers respectable outcomes at minimal debt cost. The trade-off makes sense: you're not getting elite earnings, but you're also not taking on crushing debt for a degree that's often criticized for lacking career focus.

One major caveat: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary widely. But the fundamental equation—below-average debt, above-average earnings for this degree type—suggests students are getting practical workforce preparation without the financial burden that often accompanies associate's degrees. For families seeking an affordable path to work in the Keys' tourism-driven economy, this program offers genuine value.