Economics at Duke University

Duke's economics program outperforms virtually every benchmark in sight. First-year graduates earn $98,649—nearly double the national median for economics majors and more than twice what typical North Carolina economics graduates make. Among the state's 26 economics programs, Duke ranks at the very top of the 95th percentile, with a nearly $30,000 earnings advantage over second-place Elon. The debt picture reinforces this dominance: at $13,437, graduates carry about 40% less debt than the national median, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.14.

The trajectory matters as much as the starting point. Four years out, median earnings jump to $153,139—a 55% increase that reflects Duke's access to high-paying sectors like finance, consulting, and tech. With a 7% admission rate and average SAT of 1539, Duke attracts exceptionally talented students, but the economic outcomes suggest the school delivers substantial value beyond just student selection effects.

For families who can manage Duke's price tag or qualify for financial aid, this program represents one of the strongest returns available for economics majors. The combination of low debt and exceptional earning power creates financial flexibility that few undergraduate programs can match. The only caveat: just 13% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting financial aid may be limited for middle-income families who don't qualify for need-based assistance.