Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Wake Technical Community College

Wake Tech's liberal arts associate degree shows something unusual: graduates earn significantly more than typical liberal arts graduates both nationally and in North Carolina, with first-year earnings of $30,373 climbing to over $40,000 by year four. That 33% earnings growth trajectory outpaces what most associate degree holders experience, suggesting graduates are either advancing in their positions or using this degree as a launching pad for further education. Among North Carolina's 66 schools offering this program, Wake Tech ranks in the 60th percentile—respectable, though several community colleges like Randolph and Beaufort achieve notably higher outcomes.

The $11,000 debt load sits right at the national median but higher than North Carolina's typical $7,500, likely reflecting Wake Tech's location in the relatively expensive Raleigh market. Still, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36, graduates owe roughly four months of their first-year salary—manageable by most standards. The strong sample size means these aren't flukes; this reflects genuine outcomes for a large cohort of students.

For families weighing this option, the value depends on what comes next. If your child plans to transfer to a four-year university (as many liberal arts students do), Wake Tech provides solid preparation at a reasonable cost. If they're entering the workforce directly, the earnings trajectory is promising but not exceptional compared to North Carolina's top-performing community colleges in this program.