Economics at Emory University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Emory's economics degree stands out dramatically in Georgia and nationally, placing graduates in the 95th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $71,340—nearly 60% above the state median of $45,226. This performance gap is remarkable: the next-best program (Spelman College at $59,907) still trails by nearly $12,000, while most Georgia schools cluster around $40,000. Nationally, Emory economics grads earn $20,000 more than the typical program, putting them ahead of 94% of comparable degrees across 808 institutions.
The debt picture reinforces this advantage. While Emory's $21,000 median debt sits slightly below the national average, it's notably lower than Georgia's $26,125 median. The 0.29 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than four months of their first-year salary—a comfortable position that only improves as earnings climb 22% by year four. Given Emory's 11% admission rate and academic rigor, these outcomes suggest the program successfully converts selectivity into tangible career results.
For families weighing Emory's private school price tag, these numbers offer reassurance. Your child would be entering one of Georgia's strongest economics programs with graduates commanding substantially higher salaries than state school alternatives, while carrying manageable debt that shouldn't constrain post-graduation choices.
Where Emory 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 Emory University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Emory University graduates earn $71k, placing them in the 94th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (16 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Emory University | $71,340 | $86,679 | $21,000 | 0.29 |
| Spelman College | $59,907 | $67,871 | $27,000 | 0.45 |
| University of Georgia | $49,725 | $68,386 | $16,924 | 0.34 |
| Morehouse College | $40,726 | $83,743 | $27,000 | 0.66 |
| Georgia State University | $40,598 | $62,063 | $28,500 | 0.70 |
| University of West Georgia | $39,899 | $45,971 | $25,250 | 0.63 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
Other Economics Programs in Georgia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spelman College Atlanta | $30,058 | $59,907 | $27,000 |
| University of Georgia Athens | $11,180 | $49,725 | $16,924 |
| Morehouse College Atlanta | $31,725 | $40,726 | $27,000 |
| Georgia State University Atlanta | $8,478 | $40,598 | $28,500 |
| University of West Georgia Carrollton | $5,971 | $39,899 | $25,250 |
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 Emory University, approximately 18% 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 66 graduates with reported earnings and 70 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.