Analysis
Based on comparable economics programs across New York, Saint Rose graduates can expect to earn around $50,000 in their first year—landing right at the state median but trailing the national benchmark by nearly $2,000. The estimated $25,000 in debt pushes slightly above both state and national norms, though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 suggests manageable repayment. What's less clear is how this particular program positions students relative to its peer institutions: New York's top economics programs produce nearly double these earnings, but those are highly selective schools drawing different student populations.
The real uncertainty here is whether Saint Rose's specific program outperforms or underperforms the state average we're using as a proxy. With a 39% Pell grant population and a 73% admission rate, the school serves students who might face different labor market outcomes than those at more selective institutions. Economics degrees generally provide solid versatility in finance, consulting, and government roles, but first-year earnings in the low $50,000s suggest graduates may be starting in entry-level positions rather than competitive analyst roles.
For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether Saint Rose offers particular strengths—faculty connections, Albany's government sector access, internship pipelines—that would justify confidence despite the lack of program-specific data. The estimated numbers suggest a standard economics outcome, but without knowing how this program actually performs, you're betting on the school's ability to match or exceed what similar programs deliver.
Where The College of Saint Rose Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (74 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,452 | $50,059* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $66,246 | $85,860* | $103,309 | $16,750* | 0.20 | |
| $66,014 | $84,967* | $107,248 | $15,500* | 0.18 | |
| $69,045 | $83,135* | $117,355 | $25,000* | 0.30 | |
| $67,805 | $79,845* | $81,561 | $19,000* | 0.24 | |
| $67,024 | $77,274* | $103,456 | $17,500* | 0.23 | |
| 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 The College of Saint Rose, approximately 39% 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 36 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.