Economics at University of Illinois Chicago

UIC Economics graduates face a harsh reality in their first year out, earning just $37,767—nearly $10,000 below the Illinois median and ranking in the bottom 5th percentile nationally. That's a concerning start for students who could earn substantially more with the same degree from schools like Wheaton ($62,889) or even UIUC downstate ($58,921). However, the story shifts dramatically by year four, when median earnings jump to $63,369, representing 68% growth and vaulting graduates closer to competitive territory.

The relatively modest debt load of $19,002 (below both state and national medians) makes this delayed payoff more tolerable than it would be otherwise. The debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio of 0.50 suggests manageable payments even during those lean early years, and once earnings accelerate, the financial picture improves considerably. Still, this pattern raises questions about why UIC Economics grads start so far behind—whether it's the types of entry-level jobs they're securing, geographic factors in Chicago's competitive market, or career preparation gaps.

For families, the calculus depends heavily on your child's financial cushion. Can they weather two to three years of below-market earnings? If so, the eventual trajectory and low debt make this workable. But students expecting immediate returns after graduation should look elsewhere—the data shows UIC Economics is a slow burn, not a quick win.