Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at University of Missouri-Kansas City

UMKC's Liberal Arts program delivers stronger outcomes than most Missouri alternatives, with first-year earnings of $39,992 placing it solidly above the state median of $37,588. At 60th percentile among Missouri's 38 programs, it outperforms the majority of in-state options while charging lower debt than average. The $25,000 debt burden sits $3,762 below what typical Missouri students in this field carry, making this a relatively efficient investment compared to peer institutions across the state.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story: graduates see 21% income growth by year four, reaching $48,355. That puts them within striking distance of pricier private options like Saint Louis University ($48,829) without the premium debt load. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 is manageable—graduates earn enough in their first year to make the loan burden workable rather than overwhelming.

For Missouri families seeking an affordable liberal arts education, UMKC represents solid middle-ground territory. You're not getting William Jewell's outcomes, but you're avoiding the debt that often comes with private colleges while still clearing the state average by a meaningful margin. Given the 75% admission rate and reasonable selectivity, this program offers accessible entry into a degree path with demonstrably better-than-typical returns for the field.