Economics at University of Georgia

UGA economics graduates start earning slightly below the national median at $49,725, but their trajectory tells a more compelling story: earnings jump 38% to $68,386 by year four, outpacing most economics programs. Among Georgia's 16 economics programs, UGA ranks at the 60th percentile—sitting comfortably above the state median of $45,226, though still trailing Emory and Spelman's premium outcomes. For a flagship state university at 37% admission selectivity, these numbers make sense.

The debt picture is particularly attractive. At $16,924, graduates carry roughly $9,000 less than Georgia's typical economics major and nearly $6,000 below the national median. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.34—meaning most graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under six months of earnings. For families weighing the cost of a UGA education, that low debt burden provides significant financial flexibility early in graduates' careers.

The main tradeoff here is between UGA's solid but not spectacular starting salaries and its combination of low debt plus strong earnings growth. If your child needs immediate high earnings, Emory delivers $20,000 more out of the gate. But for families prioritizing value—reasonable debt, strong brand recognition, and graduates who build earning power over time—UGA economics represents a sound middle-ground choice among Georgia options.