Economics at Montana State University

Montana State's economics program delivers moderate results that look better within the state than nationally, though the limited data (fewer than 30 graduates) requires some caution in interpretation. At $47,098 starting out, graduates earn about $4,600 less than the national economics median, placing the program in just the 31st percentile nationally. However, within Montana's limited economics landscape (only two schools offer the degree), this represents the median outcome. Graduates see steady 11% earnings growth to $52,440 by year four, suggesting the degree builds value over time.

The debt picture provides the clearest advantage: at $25,500, borrowers owe less than the national median and face a manageable 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's roughly half a year's salary—a level where monthly payments shouldn't strain typical budgets. The relatively modest debt partially compensates for earnings that trail national peers.

For Montana families, particularly those planning to stay in-state where economics job markets may differ from coastal hubs, this represents a reasonable path forward. The degree provides steady earnings growth and manageable debt, even if it won't match outcomes at top-tier programs. Just remember that with such a small graduating class, any individual student's experience could vary significantly from these medians—both better and worse.