Economics at University of Delaware
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Delaware economics graduates see notably strong income progression, with median earnings jumping from $56K to $72K within four years—a 29% increase that outpaces many peer programs. That four-year mark puts graduates well ahead of the national median for economics majors, suggesting the program effectively positions students for career advancement rather than just entry-level placement.
The financial fundamentals look solid. With $25,261 in typical debt against first-year earnings of nearly $56K, graduates face a manageable 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio—well below the concerning 1.0 threshold. Delaware's three economics programs all cluster around similar outcomes, and UDel sits right at the state median while ranking in the 64th percentile nationally. The below-average debt burden (27th percentile nationally) means graduates keep more of their paychecks as they advance into those stronger mid-career earnings.
For families evaluating cost versus outcomes, this represents a straightforward value proposition: moderate debt paired with above-average earnings that grow substantially in the early career years. The combination of accessible admission standards and reliable post-graduation results makes this a practical choice for students interested in economics without the pressure of elite-tier competition.
Where University of Delaware Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Delaware graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Delaware graduates earn $56k, placing them in the 64th percentile of all economics bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Delaware
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Delaware | $55,905 | $72,156 | $25,261 | 0.45 |
| National Median | $51,722 | — | $22,816 | 0.44 |
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 Delaware, approximately 16% 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 202 graduates with reported earnings and 173 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.