Economics at Assumption University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Assumption's economics program punches above its weight in a state dominated by elite institutions. While Harvard and Amherst grads earn significantly more, Assumption delivers $58,954 in first-year earnings—above both the national median ($51,722) and Massachusetts median ($57,299). For a school with an 87% admission rate, these outcomes suggest the program successfully prepares students for competitive entry-level positions.
The financial picture is particularly attractive: at $27,000 in debt versus nearly $59,000 in earnings, graduates face a debt burden equal to just 46% of their first-year salary. This ratio ranks in the 5th percentile nationally for debt—meaning 95% of economics programs saddle students with more loans. Even in Massachusetts, where typical economics grads carry $25,000 in debt, Assumption's slightly higher debt load is easily justified by the stronger earnings.
The main caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates in the data set means these numbers could shift with a larger cohort. But assuming consistency, this represents solid value: market-competitive earnings without the debt burden that often comes with private education. For families who can't access or afford the top-tier Massachusetts programs, Assumption offers a pragmatic path to economics careers without crushing financial pressure after graduation.
Where Assumption University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Assumption University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Assumption University graduates earn $59k, placing them in the 75th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (38 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assumption University | $58,954 | — | $27,000 | 0.46 |
| Harvard University | $103,993 | $124,570 | $6,617 | 0.06 |
| Amherst College | $90,568 | $127,636 | $16,662 | 0.18 |
| Wellesley College | $86,367 | $91,749 | $11,190 | 0.13 |
| Williams College | $80,888 | $115,082 | $12,925 | 0.16 |
| Tufts University | $75,125 | $105,444 | $17,850 | 0.24 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in Massachusetts
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harvard University Cambridge | $59,076 | $103,993 | $6,617 |
| Amherst College Amherst | $67,280 | $90,568 | $16,662 |
| Wellesley College Wellesley | $64,320 | $86,367 | $11,190 |
| Williams College Williamstown | $64,860 | $80,888 | $12,925 |
| Tufts University Medford | $67,844 | $75,125 | $17,850 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Assumption University, approximately 19% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 18 graduates with reported earnings and 19 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.