Economics at Southern Methodist University

SMU's economics graduates earn nearly $40,000 more than the typical Texas economics major right out of school, placing them firmly in the state's top tier. At $71,630 in first-year earnings, they're trailing only Rice and beating programs at UT Austin, TCU, and others. The $19,500 median debt is reasonable—covered in roughly three months of gross income—making this a clear financial winner if your child can handle the academic rigor (average SAT of 1424 suggests a competitive environment).

The earnings trajectory deserves attention, though. Growth from year one to year four is modest at 4%, significantly lagging inflation and suggesting these graduates may be hitting their ceiling relatively quickly. This isn't necessarily alarming—they're starting from such a high baseline that $74,491 four years out still represents strong compensation. But families should understand they're paying for immediate market entry more than explosive career growth.

For families who can manage SMU's tuition (only 12% of students receive Pell grants, indicating a wealthier student body), this economics program delivers what it promises: strong corporate placement in Dallas's robust finance and business sectors. The debt load is manageable and the starting salary advantage over state alternatives is substantial enough to justify the investment, particularly for students targeting consulting, banking, or corporate strategy roles where SMU's alumni network in Texas carries real weight.