Analysis
Looking at Kentucky's economics programs, the University of Louisville sits in uncertain territory. Based on three comparable programs in the state, graduates can expect around $51,000 in first-year earnings—essentially matching both state and national medians for economics degrees. With estimated debt of $21,650 (derived from similar institutions nationally), the 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates could reasonably manage repayment, directing roughly 4-5 months of gross income toward their undergraduate loans.
What complicates the picture is the limited data itself. The Department of Education suppresses figures when graduate samples are too small, which means we're extrapolating from peer institutions rather than seeing this program's actual track record. The estimates place Louisville in the middle of Kentucky's range—trailing Western Kentucky's $53,857 but ahead of UK's $41,713—but without knowing Louisville's specific graduate outcomes, you're essentially betting on statistical similarity. The school's 81% admission rate and mid-range SAT scores suggest it serves a broad student population, which could mean variable outcomes depending on individual preparation and career focus.
If your child is committed to economics and Louisville offers other compelling advantages (location, cost, specific faculty), the estimated numbers don't flash warning signs. But recognize you're investing based on peer program performance, not Louisville's proven results in this major. Request placement data and alumni outcomes directly from the department before committing.
Where University of Louisville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,828 | $51,077* | — | $21,650* | — | |
| $11,436 | $53,857* | $55,446 | $19,500* | 0.36 | |
| $50,550 | $51,077* | $67,177 | $27,000* | 0.53 | |
| $13,212 | $41,713* | $55,856 | $26,942* | 0.65 | |
| 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 Louisville, approximately 29% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.