Analysis
Similar economics programs in New Hampshire suggest first-year earnings around $70,000, which would outpace the national median for economics bachelor's degrees by about 35%. This estimated figure places Plymouth State roughly in line with Southern New Hampshire University's outcomes, though well below what Dartmouth economics graduates command. The projected debt load of $21,650 translates to a 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning roughly four months of gross income to cover the total debt, which is manageable by most standards.
The challenge here is interpreting peer-program data for a school where actual graduate outcomes aren't publicly reported due to small cohort sizes. Economics programs can vary dramatically depending on whether they emphasize quantitative skills, whether students pursue finance-sector positions, and how effectively career services connects graduates with employers. The $70,000 estimate might reflect outcomes from students who secured Boston-area financial analyst roles, or it might represent a mix that includes students working locally in business development at much lower salaries.
For a family considering Plymouth State's economics program, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value if they hold true. But you're essentially betting on peer-program performance rather than this school's proven track record. If your student is drawn to this program, dig into where recent graduates actually landed jobs and what roles they're filling—that concrete information matters more than statewide averages when the actual data is unavailable.
Where Plymouth State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,558 | $69,807* | — | $21,650* | — | |
| $65,739 | $94,675* | $118,120 | $18,400* | 0.19 | |
| $16,450 | $69,807* | $91,624 | $19,500* | 0.28 | |
| $19,112 | $54,328* | $66,335 | $25,897* | 0.48 | |
| 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 Plymouth State University, approximately 26% 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 NH. Actual outcomes may vary.