Analysis
University of Cincinnati's economics program punches above its weight, delivering first-year earnings of $58,590—nearly $7,000 more than what the typical Ohio economics graduate makes. That performance places it in the 60th percentile statewide, meaning it outearns roughly 25 of the 42 economics programs in Ohio, despite UC's 88% admission rate suggesting it's more accessible than many competitors.
The debt picture reinforces this value proposition. At $21,264, graduates owe about $2,000 less than both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.36. That means the typical graduate could theoretically pay off their debt with four months of their first-year salary. The 21% earnings jump to $70,663 by year four shows steady career progression, reaching levels that rival or exceed several more selective Ohio schools like Kenyon and Miami University.
For an anxious parent, this data suggests UC delivers what matters: competitive starting salaries without excessive debt, from a program that's realistically attainable for most college-ready students. The combination of above-average earnings, below-average debt, and strong growth trajectory makes this a solid choice for students interested in economics who want to stay in Ohio.
Where University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Cincinnati-Main Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $58,590 | $70,663 | +21% |
| Miami University-Oxford | $57,379 | $80,452 | +40% |
| Kenyon College | $58,082 | $75,347 | +30% |
| Denison University | $55,087 | $69,793 | +27% |
| John Carroll University | $65,098 | $67,845 | +4% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (42 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Cincinnati-Main CampusCincinnati | $13,570 | $58,590 | $70,663 | $21,264 | 0.36 |
 John Carroll UniversityUniversity Heights | $49,100 | $65,098 | $67,845 | $27,000 | 0.41 |
 Oberlin CollegeOberlin | $64,646 | $61,713 | $64,495 | $25,000 | 0.41 |
 Kenyon CollegeGambier | $69,330 | $58,082 | $75,347 | $18,718 | 0.32 |
 Miami University-OxfordOxford | $17,809 | $57,379 | $80,452 | $25,500 | 0.44 |
 Kent State University at KentKent | $12,846 | $56,731 | — | $25,000 | 0.44 |
| 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 University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, approximately 18% 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 45 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.