Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at University of Nevada-Reno

UNR's liberal arts program consistently outperforms national expectations, with graduates earning $43,520 in their first year—nearly $7,000 above the national median for this major and landing in the 83rd percentile nationally. The debt load of $23,790 is also more manageable than typical, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 that most families could handle with standard repayment plans. These graduates appear to be finding solid footing in Nevada's job market, particularly around Reno's growing tech and service sectors.

What's notable here is the consistency: earnings hold steady around $44,000 through year four, suggesting these graduates secure stable positions rather than bouncing between entry-level roles. While the lack of dramatic salary growth might concern some parents, the flip side is that first-year earnings are already strong enough that graduates aren't starting from behind. Within Nevada, this program sits at the 60th percentile—respectable but not dominant, which makes sense given there are only two schools offering this major statewide.

For Nevada families, this represents a practical path: moderate debt, above-average starting earnings, and the stability of a state flagship. The liberal arts degree here appears to translate into actual employment better than at most schools nationally, making it a safer bet than the major's reputation might suggest.