Liberal Arts & Humanities at Francis Marion University

Florence, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
17 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
17
Optimistic
17
Base Case
22
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,838/yr (-41% vs median)
AI Risk Low (0% exposed)
Job Market Medium (13,500 openings/yr)
ROI 10.2x earnings multiple (5.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #403 of 424 Liberal Arts and Sciences programs

Program Analysis

Francis Marion's Liberal Arts and Sciences program, situated in the Florence, SC region, often sees its graduates enter a local job market that prioritizes immediate, specialized skills. While your foundational critical thinking and communication abilities are invaluable, the initial earning potential can be moderated by the regional economy, which historically has fewer high-paying entry-level roles for generalist degrees compared to major metropolitan areas. Many graduates find fulfilling careers in local government, education (often requiring further certification), non-profits, or administrative roles within regional businesses. The value of this broad degree often compounds over time as you gain experience and leverage your adaptable skillset. To maximize your post-graduation prospects, actively seek internships and network within industries that align with your interests throughout your studies.

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 $457K $457K $433K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.2x 10.2x 9.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.3x 5.3x 5.0x
Probability of Field Employment 45% 45% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 17 17 22

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$44,640
Out-of-state: $86,176 (5.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$53,804
-21% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$39,981
22.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$36,408
67% growth from Year 1

About Francis Marion University

With 82% of applicants admitted, Francis Marion University prioritizes broad access, a smaller institution with 2,640 students in Florence, SC.

See all programs and financial aid at Francis Marion 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 Francis Marion University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 17/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Liberal Arts & Humanities at Francis Marion University?
At 17/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Liberal Arts & Humanities programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Liberal Arts & Humanities degree from Francis Marion University?
At $39,981 in median debt, graduates carry 22 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is Francis Marion University a good choice for Liberal Arts & Humanities despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Francis Marion 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 →