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
Earnings Distribution
How University of Delaware 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 Delaware | $55,905 | $72,156 | +29% |
| Duke University | $98,649 | $153,139 | +55% |
| University of Chicago | $92,075 | $127,832 | +39% |
| Amherst College | $90,568 | $127,636 | +41% |
| Stanford University | $98,104 | $127,416 | +30% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Economics bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of DelawareNewark | $16,080 | $55,905 | $72,156 | $25,261 | 0.45 |
 Harvard UniversityCambridge | $59,076 | $103,993 | $124,570 | $6,617 | 0.06 |
 Princeton UniversityPrinceton | $59,710 | $103,041 | — | $11,250 | 0.11 |
 Duke UniversityDurham | $65,805 | $98,649 | $153,139 | $13,437 | 0.14 |
 Stanford UniversityStanford | $62,484 | $98,104 | $127,416 | $12,500 | 0.13 |
 Dartmouth CollegeHanover | $65,739 | $94,675 | $118,120 | $18,400 | 0.19 |
| 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 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.