Abstract
This study explores student perceptions of the financial and nonfinancial return on investment (ROI) of a liberal arts (LA) degree through surveys and interviews. Four prominent returns emerged through qualitative analysis of data: financial security, a credential, personal growth, and the promise of meaningful work. Results demonstrated the influence of anticipatory socialization on conceptions of meaningful work and the ROI of the LA degree. These findings detail a contemporary view of the value of a LA degree in the United States and are important for educators and administrators who seek to transition students from college to career.
Disclosure Statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).