Analysis
Based on comparable economics programs across Kansas, Pittsburg State appears positioned right at the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $51,000 and debt near $22,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 suggests graduates could reasonably manage repayment—though keep in mind these figures come from peer programs rather than Pittsburg State's specific track record, since too few graduates reported data for publication.
What's interesting is how Kansas State, just 90 minutes north, reports actual outcomes of $52,490 for its economics grads—essentially the same trajectory—while charging similar debt loads. The University of Kansas, despite its flagship status, shows lower reported earnings at $45,420, which suggests Pittsburg State's regional business community might offer solid placement opportunities that rival larger schools. The economics degree here likely benefits from Kansas's stable job market in agriculture, manufacturing, and regional finance.
The challenge for parents is that without program-specific data, you're relying on statewide patterns to project outcomes. The fundamentals look reasonable: manageable debt paired with earnings that track national medians. But if your child is deciding between Pittsburg State and a school with documented outcomes, that reported data provides certainty this estimate cannot. Consider reaching out to the economics department directly about recent graduate placements—actual employer names and job titles will tell you more than these peer-derived numbers can.
Where Pittsburg State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,008 | $50,690* | — | $21,650* | — | |
| $10,942 | $52,490* | $68,155 | $20,312* | 0.39 | |
| $5,633 | $50,690* | — | —* | — | |
| $11,700 | $45,420* | $53,664 | $26,000* | 0.57 | |
| National Median | — | $51,722* | — | $22,816* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
Search Marketing Strategists
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Pittsburg State University, approximately 32% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in KS. Actual outcomes may vary.