Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at University of Massachusetts-Boston

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67—what comparable liberal arts programs in Massachusetts typically produce—suggests this bachelor's degree would require about eight months of gross income to pay off, which is manageable by most standards. The estimated $39,141 first-year salary aligns precisely with the state median for these programs and sits above the national benchmark of $36,340. With 43% of students receiving Pell grants, UMass Boston serves a predominantly working-class population, making affordability particularly important.

The challenge here is context. Liberal arts degrees at Massachusetts schools vary wildly—from MIT's $103,135 outcomes (admittedly a statistical outlier driven by double majors) down to programs earning half that amount. UMass Boston's estimated position near the middle of this range, combined with an 83% admission rate and accessible urban location, suggests a program that provides solid access without premium pricing. The estimated $26,371 debt load falls slightly below both state and national medians, which matters for students who may need to pursue graduate education in fields where liberal arts serves as a stepping stone.

The practical question is whether these estimated middle-of-the-pack outcomes align with your child's post-graduation plans. Liberal arts degrees often function as pre-professional credentials or pathways to graduate school rather than direct career preparation, so salary figures one year out may understate long-term value—but also may overstate near-term earning power if your student needs immediate financial independence.