Economics at Colgate University

Colgate economics graduates land in the top tier of New York programs, with first-year earnings of $77,274 placing them above every in-state competitor except three highly selective peers. That's $27,000 more than the median economics graduate in New York and $25,000 above the national benchmark—remarkable consistency at the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide. The $17,500 median debt, while higher than some elite schools that meet full demonstrated need, still represents just 23% of first-year earnings, a manageable burden by any measure.

The 34% earnings growth to $103,456 by year four suggests Colgate's network and credential continue paying dividends as graduates advance in their careers. While the 12% admission rate and 1480 average SAT indicate this isn't an easy admit, students who get in are accessing genuine economic mobility—even the modest Pell population (13%) appears to achieve similar outcomes. The moderate sample size means individual year variation is possible, but the data aligns with what you'd expect from a top liberal arts college with strong Wall Street and consulting pipelines.

For families weighing Colgate against larger state universities, the math is straightforward: you're paying a premium upfront but graduating with less debt and significantly higher earning potential than 95% of economics programs nationwide.