Economics at Macalester College

Macalester economics graduates hit the ground running with $59,752 in their first year—already outpacing both the national median ($51,722) and Minnesota average ($56,570) for economics majors. What's particularly compelling is the trajectory: earnings jump 40% to nearly $84,000 by year four, demonstrating the liberal arts approach to economics translates into real market value. Among Minnesota's 23 economics programs, Macalester places in the 60th percentile, trailing top performers like Carleton ($66,567) but delivering solidly above the state median.

The $24,000 in typical debt sits right at Minnesota's average and represents a manageable 40% of first-year earnings. That's a healthy ratio—these graduates can realistically pay down their loans while building careers. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) means some year-to-year variation is possible, but the pattern is clear: early earnings advantage plus strong growth momentum.

For a selective liberal arts college (28% admission rate), Macalester's economics program delivers on its promise. Your student isn't just buying prestige—they're accessing a program that ranks in the 76th percentile nationally and produces graduates who earn $8,000 more than typical economics majors right out of the gate. The investment makes sense, particularly given the upward earnings trajectory and controlled debt load.