Economics at Iowa State University

Iowa State's economics graduates start at $57,619—significantly above both the national median ($51,722) and the Iowa median ($49,314). Among Iowa's 17 economics programs, this performance places it in the 60th percentile, comfortably ahead of peer institutions like University of Iowa and Grinnell College. The debt load of $23,414 is essentially average, creating a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 that means graduates can realistically pay down their loans within the first few years of employment.

What's particularly encouraging is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 23% income growth by year four, reaching $70,764. This isn't an early peak—it's a steady climb that suggests the degree builds marketable skills that employers increasingly value. The moderate sample size means these numbers reflect a real cohort, not an outlier or two.

For Iowa families, this represents solid value, especially considering Iowa State's 89% admission rate makes it accessible to most applicants. Your child gets competitive starting salaries without the premium debt load of private alternatives, and the clear upward earnings path suggests the economics major translates well into career progression. It's a straightforward investment with predictable returns.