Liberal Arts & Humanities at Bluefield State University

Bluefield, WV · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
21 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
22
Optimistic
21
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings $25,677/yr (-31% vs median)
AI Risk Low (0% exposed)
Job Market Medium (13,500 openings/yr)
ROI 9.8x earnings multiple (5.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #381 of 424 Liberal Arts and Sciences programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data for Bluefield State's Liberal Arts and General Studies program reflects the unique labor market dynamics of Southern West Virginia. This region's economy, while offering a strong sense of community, presents fewer high-paying opportunities directly aligned with broad humanities degrees compared to more urban or specialized markets. A general studies curriculum provides a versatile foundation, but without a specific professional focus or clear industry pipeline, immediate post-graduation roles often lean towards local government, non-profits, or smaller businesses where salaries can be more modest. While some graduates pursue advanced degrees for roles like postsecondary teachers, this typically requires further significant investment. To maximize your return, proactively seek internships, cultivate specific skills alongside your studies, and network extensively to identify demand in local or regional sectors that value critical thinking and communication.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Liberal Arts & Humanities graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $403K $403K $378K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.8x 9.8x 9.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.7x 5.7x 5.4x
Probability of Field Employment 45% 45% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 22 21 28

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$40,960
Out-of-state: $70,240 (5.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$50,116
-22% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,426
9.1 months of Year 1 earnings

About Bluefield State University

Bluefield State University has a 87% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 1,231 in Bluefield, WV. 41% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Bluefield State University →

Top Career Paths

Postsecondary teachers, all other $78,490/yr
View all 1 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Liberal Arts & Humanities at Other Schools

Other Majors at Bluefield State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 21/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Liberal Arts & Humanities at Bluefield State University?
At 21/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Liberal Arts & Humanities programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is Bluefield State University a good choice for Liberal Arts & Humanities despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Bluefield State University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →