Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at University of Wyoming

A $27,000 debt load against estimated first-year earnings of $36,340 positions this program squarely in the middle of what liberal arts degrees typically deliver—neither particularly risky nor remarkably rewarding. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 suggests manageable monthly payments, though it's worth noting these earnings figures come from national benchmarks rather than tracked outcomes of Wyoming graduates specifically.

The challenge with broad liberal arts programs is less about the numbers and more about the pathway. At $36,340, these estimated starting earnings trail many vocational degrees, and without a clear professional credential, graduates need to actively translate their skills into employable narratives. The upside is flexibility—these degrees can lead to teaching, government work, graduate school, or private sector roles—but that same flexibility means outcomes vary dramatically based on what students do with the credential.

For families considering this investment, the key question is whether your student has a concrete plan for what comes after graduation. The debt burden won't be crushing, but the degree alone won't open obvious doors either. Wyoming's 97% admission rate means access isn't an issue; the real work is ensuring your student builds internships, networks, or specific skills during those four years that will help them compete for jobs where this degree actually matters.