Analysis
Economics at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign delivers strong returns that outpace most alternatives in the state. With first-year earnings of $58,921 growing to $75,600 by year four, this program ranks in the 80th percentile among Illinois economics programs—significantly above the state median of $47,048. The 28% earnings growth trajectory suggests graduates build valuable skills that translate into meaningful career advancement.
The debt picture looks manageable at $21,228, which is actually below both the national median ($22,816) and well under the Illinois median ($25,000) for economics programs. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 means most graduates can realistically pay off their loans within a few years while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. While elite private schools like University of Chicago and Northwestern show higher earnings, they typically come with substantially higher debt loads that can offset their earnings advantage for middle-class families.
This program offers excellent value for students who can handle the academics at a respected public research university. The combination of above-average earnings, reasonable debt, and strong growth potential makes this a solid investment, especially for Illinois residents paying in-state tuition.
Where University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 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 Illinois Urbana-Champaign | $58,921 | $75,600 | +28% |
| University of Chicago | $92,075 | $127,832 | +39% |
| Northwestern University | $84,932 | $105,795 | +25% |
| University of Illinois Chicago | $37,767 | $63,369 | +68% |
| Northern Illinois University | $45,386 | $63,359 | +40% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Illinois
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Illinois (35 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignChampaign | $16,004 | $58,921 | $75,600 | $21,228 | 0.36 |
 University of ChicagoChicago | $66,939 | $92,075 | $127,832 | $13,197 | 0.14 |
 Northwestern UniversityEvanston | $65,997 | $84,932 | $105,795 | $16,227 | 0.19 |
 Wheaton CollegeWheaton | $43,930 | $62,889 | $60,894 | $21,000 | 0.33 |
 Olivet Nazarene UniversityBourbonnais | $37,940 | $54,169 | — | $27,000 | 0.50 |
 Lake Forest CollegeLake Forest | $54,202 | $53,529 | $62,870 | $27,000 | 0.50 |
| 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 Illinois Urbana-Champaign, approximately 24% 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 326 graduates with reported earnings and 346 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.