Economics at Colby College

Colby's economics program launches graduates into strong early careers, with first-year earnings of $76,401 placing them in the 95th percentile nationally—nearly 50% above what typical economics majors earn. The trajectory looks even better over time, with earnings climbing to $102,153 by year four, a 34% increase that suggests graduates are securing positions with real advancement potential. At $24,250 in median debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 is highly manageable, meaning graduates can pay off loans without financial strain while building their careers.

Within Maine, the picture is more nuanced. While Colby's outcomes are solid, they trail slightly behind Bowdoin's top-performing program ($75,867) and match Bates. This 60th percentile state ranking reflects the reality that Maine's few economics programs are concentrated at selective liberal arts colleges with similar outcomes. The state comparison matters less here than the national one—Colby economics majors are competing in a national job market where their credentials and earnings far exceed the typical graduate from the 800+ programs nationwide.

For families weighing Colby's 7% admission rate and premium price tag, the economics program delivers measurable returns. Graduates enter high-earning career tracks immediately and sustain that momentum, making the initial investment recoverable within years rather than decades.