Economics at University of Dayton

University of Dayton's economics graduates start at $34,671—trailing not just the national median of $51,722 but also ranking in just the 10th percentile among Ohio's 42 economics programs. While strong 64% earnings growth brings graduates to $56,812 by year four, that initial salary gap represents real financial pressure in those crucial first years when loan payments begin. Programs at John Carroll, Cincinnati, and Miami all deliver substantially higher starting salaries with comparable debt loads.

The $22,791 debt burden sits right at the national median for economics degrees, which means the value challenge here isn't about excessive borrowing—it's about below-market starting salaries. Even accounting for the program's manageable 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates face a tougher early financial path than peers at most other Ohio institutions. The eventual recovery to near-median earnings suggests the credential holds value long-term, but those first years matter enormously for establishing financial stability.

The small sample size here is crucial—with under 30 graduates reporting data, these numbers could swing dramatically year to year. If your student is committed to economics at a selective Catholic university, understand you're accepting significant early-career uncertainty compared to peer programs across Ohio. For families prioritizing immediate post-graduation earnings, the state offers stronger alternatives at similar price points.