At $18,707/yr net price, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts graduates earn $48,102/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $14,102/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $18,707 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $74,828 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,102/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,102/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 49.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,750 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,440/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $16,990/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $15,698/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $19,147/yr |
| $110,001+ | $23,800/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $63,005 | $22,375 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Master | $47,260 | |
| Education, General. | Master | $43,798 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $34,467 | $22,166 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Bachelor | $32,569 | $25,000 |
| Education, General. | Bachelor | $32,284 | $21,700 |
| Sociology. | Bachelor | $31,828 | $25,027 |
| History. | Bachelor | $30,409 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $29,374 | $24,492 |
| Psychology, General. | Bachelor | $28,236 | $22,700 |
The Risk Factor
49.1% of students at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts delivers weak financial returns that leave most graduates struggling to justify their investment. The median 10-year earnings of $48,102 barely exceed what many community college graduates earn, while the 49% graduation rate means half of students leave with debt but no degree.
Computer Science stands out as the only program worth pursuing financially, with graduates earning $63,005 annually against reasonable debt loads. Business majors see mixed results depending on their specific track, with general Business/Commerce graduates earning $47,260 but Business Administration majors making just $34,467. Education majors face the typical teacher salary reality at $43,798, which may work if you secure loan forgiveness programs. English majors earn a concerning $32,569 with $25,000 in debt.
The school's location in North Adams limits job opportunities, forcing many graduates to relocate for better-paying positions. The 69% retention rate signals academic or financial struggles that push students away before graduation. With 40% of students receiving aid, merit opportunities exist but likely target top performers.
You should consider MCLA only if you plan to major in Computer Science or can attend with minimal debt through family funding or substantial aid packages. The low graduation rate creates real risk that you'll accumulate debt without earning a degree. Students seeking liberal arts education with better financial prospects should examine state flagship universities or regional schools with stronger alumni networks and job placement records in major metropolitan areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts worth the debt?
With median debt of $23,750 and 10-year earnings of $48,102, MCLA graduates face a reasonable debt-to-income ratio. However, the 49% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish their degree, making this a risky investment for many.
Which programs at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts have the best return on investment?
Computer and Information Sciences graduates earn $63,005 after 10 years, making it the clear winner for ROI at MCLA. Business programs show mixed results, with general business majors earning $47,260 but management graduates only making $34,467.
How does Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts compare to other schools for value?
MCLA's net price of $18,707 is relatively affordable, but the 49% graduation rate and $48,102 median earnings lag behind many comparable schools. The high acceptance rate of 92% suggests less selective admissions standards.
Should I avoid certain majors at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts?
English majors at MCLA earn just $32,569 after 10 years, making it difficult to justify the debt load. Education majors also face below-average earnings at $43,798, though this reflects the broader teacher salary situation rather than school-specific issues.