Economics at Smith College

Smith's Economics program demonstrates why selectivity alone doesn't guarantee top-tier outcomes. While graduates start strong at $71,559—well above both the national median ($51,722) and Massachusetts average ($57,299)—they're earning notably less than peers at comparable liberal arts colleges. Williams, Wellesley, and Amherst economics graduates all command starting salaries $10,000-$20,000 higher, despite similar admission profiles. More concerning is the 7% earnings decline by year four, suggesting these graduates either face limited advancement in their initial roles or shift into lower-paying career paths after testing the waters elsewhere.

The financial fundamentals look manageable with $19,000 in median debt producing a comfortable 0.27 debt-to-earnings ratio. However, context matters: this debt level sits at the 75th percentile nationally, meaning three-quarters of economics programs nationwide send graduates out with less debt. At an elite institution charging premium tuition, that's worth noting—especially when the earnings trajectory points downward rather than up.

For families paying Smith's sticker price, the ROI question becomes sharp. This program ranks in just the 60th percentile among Massachusetts economics degrees, performing solidly but not exceptionally in a state packed with strong programs. If your daughter is committed to Smith's unique environment and women's college experience, the economics degree won't hold her back. But if maximizing early-career earnings is the priority, comparable-selectivity options in Massachusetts deliver materially better outcomes.