Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities at Washington Adventist University

Is a general studies bachelor's worth $27,000 when first-year earnings barely cover living expenses in the Maryland-DC metro area? Based on comparable programs in Maryland, liberal arts graduates typically earn around $36,000 their first year—nearly identical to the national median—but that figure takes on different meaning in one of the country's most expensive regions. With nearly half of Washington Adventist's students receiving Pell grants, the estimated debt load represents about 9 months of gross income, a manageable ratio on paper but tight in practice given local housing and transportation costs.

The program's estimated outcomes fall in the middle of Maryland's range, well behind Notre Dame of Maryland's $49,000 but ahead of several state schools. What's harder to assess is whether Washington Adventist's specific approach—combining liberal arts with the institution's faith-based mission—produces different results than these peer programs suggest. General studies degrees are inherently flexible, which can be either an advantage or a liability depending on how graduates leverage them in the job market.

For families evaluating this investment, recognize that these estimates come from similar programs statewide, not Washington Adventist's actual graduate outcomes. The school's 45% admission rate and modest test scores suggest it serves students who may need more support, which could affect post-graduation trajectories. If your child has a clear career direction that requires this bachelor's as a credential, the debt level is workable. If not, consider whether starting at a less expensive Maryland public institution might provide similar outcomes with lower financial pressure.