Economics at Presbyterian College

Presbyterian College's economics program operates in the shadow of larger state institutions, and the estimated figures suggest why that matters. With first-year earnings around $48,000—matching the state median but trailing the national benchmark by about $3,600—this program appears to produce outcomes in line with what you'd expect from a mid-sized private college in South Carolina, not the standout results that might justify choosing it over public alternatives.

The estimated debt of $24,100 creates a manageable but not impressive debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50. That's roughly half a year's salary, which most financial advisors consider reasonable territory. However, when Furman graduates are estimated to earn $7,500 more in their first year with similar debt loads, the value proposition becomes less clear. Presbyterian's 72% admission rate and moderate selectivity suggest it's accessible, but economics graduates need career momentum to justify private college costs.

The core issue is opportunity cost. If these estimates hold true, your child would start their career on par with public university graduates but likely with higher total costs of attendance than USC or Clemson. Unless Presbyterian offers specific connections, mentorship, or graduate school placement advantages in economics that aren't reflected in these numbers, this program looks like a middle-of-the-road option in a state where comparable earnings come cheaper elsewhere.