Compare 5 General Studies. programs in Alabama. Average earnings: $35,246.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, General Studies tells a different story. Across 5 programs, earnings range from $25,194 to $41,150—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
University of Alabama at Birmingham's General Studies program leads with graduates earning $41,150, well above the state average of $35,246. Alabama A&M follows at $39,750, while Jacksonville State reaches $39,414—demonstrating that program-specific factors drive outcomes more than institutional prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. UAB graduates borrow $22,300 and face a 16.5% payment burden, landing in the 'Manageable' category. For families considering parent loans, Jacksonville State leads with a 30.9% combined burden, though all programs require careful financial planning.
Highest program earnings: $41,150
Strong outcomes with 88% acceptance
16.5% payment burden | Manageable
30.9% family burden | High burden
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $41,150 | 109 | $22,300 | Manageable | $20,498 | High | |
| #2 | Alabama A & M UniversityPublic | $39,750 | 32 | $31,000 | Challenging | $19,266 | High |
| #3 | $39,414 | 105 | $22,189 | Challenging | $13,672 | High | |
| #4 | Oakwood UniversityPrivate | $30,724 | 58 | $27,000 | High | $20,000 | High |
| #5 | University Of MobilePrivate | $25,194 | 6 | $26,500 | High | $26,500 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
