Economics at Meredith College

An estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 puts this economics program in reasonable territory—similar programs in North Carolina suggest graduates carry about $19,500 in debt against first-year earnings near $46,425. That's manageable compared to many undergraduate programs, though it falls short of what economics degrees typically deliver nationally ($51,722 median). The gap isn't enormous, but it's worth noting that top programs in the state—Duke, UNC-Chapel Hill, Elon—produce substantially higher early earnings, ranging from $56,000 to nearly $99,000.

What's difficult here is the uncertainty. Because Meredith's graduate sample is too small for the Department of Education to publish actual outcomes, these figures are extrapolated from peer programs across North Carolina. The actual experience of Meredith economics graduates could differ significantly. With a 75% admission rate and moderate test scores, the college serves a different student population than Duke or UNC, which might explain some earnings variation. But it also means you're making a financial decision without knowing whether Meredith's specific program, faculty, and alumni network deliver outcomes closer to the state average or fall below it.

The estimated debt load is modest enough that even if earnings fall somewhat short, your child likely won't face crushing monthly payments. But given the premium price of private college tuition and the availability of NC public universities with stronger documented outcomes, ask Meredith directly about their economics graduates' employment rates and starting salaries before committing.