Economics at Old Dominion University

Old Dominion's economics degree looks like a solid middle-of-the-pack option based on what similar Virginia programs produce. The estimated $54,600 first-year earnings track exactly with the state median and sit comfortably above the $51,700 national benchmark for economics graduates. While this trails Virginia's elite programs—UVA economics grads start around $75,000—it reflects Old Dominion's position as an accessible public university serving a different student population.

The estimated $22,000 debt load is manageable, translating to a 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests monthly loan payments around $245—roughly 5% of gross income. This level of debt shouldn't dominate your child's financial life after graduation, leaving room for other goals like saving for a car or apartment. Economics degrees tend to open doors beyond just economist roles, with graduates moving into business analysis, financial services, and consulting.

The real question is whether your child will thrive at Old Dominion specifically. With a 91% admission rate and solid support for lower-income students (37% receive Pell grants), it's built to serve students who may not have elite academic credentials but are serious about earning a practical degree. If the estimated earnings hold true, this represents reasonable value—but remember these figures come from peer programs across Virginia, not Old Dominion's actual graduate outcomes.