Analysis
With estimated debt of $24,102 against projected first-year earnings of $51,077, this economics degree tracks closely with what similar programs in Kentucky produce. The 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment—roughly equivalent to half a year's salary in total borrowing. However, these figures come from peer programs statewide rather than Campbellsville's own graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about outcomes specific to this institution.
The earnings estimate aligns with Kentucky's median for economics bachelor's degrees and sits just below the national benchmark of $51,722. That puts this program squarely in the middle of what economics graduates typically earn early in their careers. The estimated debt actually runs slightly lower than Kentucky's median of $26,942 for the field, which is a positive indicator. Still, comparable programs in the state show significant variation—Western Kentucky reports $53,857 while University of Kentucky comes in at $41,713—highlighting how much individual program outcomes can differ.
For families weighing this investment, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable economics, but the lack of program-specific data means you're making decisions with less certainty than you'd have at schools with reported outcomes. If your student is committed to economics and Campbellsville offers other compelling reasons (location, community, fit), the projected debt burden appears manageable. Just understand you're betting on this program performing like its Kentucky peers rather than working from its own track record.
Where Campbellsville University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,990 | $51,077* | — | $24,102* | — | |
| $11,436 | $53,857* | $55,446 | $19,500* | 0.36 | |
| $50,550 | $51,077* | $67,177 | $27,000* | 0.53 | |
| $13,212 | $41,713* | $55,856 | $26,942* | 0.65 | |
| National Median | — | $51,722* | — | $22,816* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
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 Campbellsville University, approximately 22% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.