Analysis
First-year earnings of $82,681 place this program among the nation's elite statistics degrees—95th percentile nationally—though it's worth noting that debt figures here are estimated from peer programs at the University of Chicago rather than from actual statistics graduates. Still, even if actual debt runs higher than the $16,875 estimate, the earnings trajectory suggests strong fundamentals. The program outpaces Northwestern's reported $77,917 and sits well above the national median of $59,718, indicating UChicago's brand and rigor translate to measurable market advantage.
The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.20 would be excellent if it holds true, though parents should verify actual borrowing levels before assuming this favorable picture. What matters more than the precise debt figure is that statistics graduates from top programs—and UChicago qualifies—consistently command premiums in data science, finance, and tech sectors. The 5% admission rate and 1554 average SAT mean your child is competing with exceptional peers, which often drives both networking value and employer interest.
The practical takeaway: if your child gains admission and the actual financial aid package keeps debt near or below this estimate, the investment looks sound. But confirm the numbers directly with financial aid—estimated debt can mask significant variation depending on family circumstances and aid generosity.
Where University of Chicago Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all statistics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Chicago graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Statistics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $66,939 | $82,681 | — | $16,875* | — | |
| $65,997 | $77,917 | — | $14,000* | 0.18 | |
| $16,004 | $68,636 | $84,760 | $19,394* | 0.28 | |
| $14,338 | $38,296 | — | $22,945* | 0.60 | |
| National Median | — | $59,718 | — | $20,150* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with statistics graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Actuaries
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Mathematicians
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Mathematical Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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 University of Chicago, approximately 14% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 25 graduates with reported earnings and 16 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.