Economics at University of Nevada-Las Vegas

UNLV's Economics program starts at a surprisingly low $30,432 in year one—ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally—but then something remarkable happens: earnings nearly triple to $75,591 by year four. That 148% growth rate suggests graduates may be starting in entry-level or service positions before transitioning into genuine economics roles. While this trajectory requires patience, the destination is solid, ultimately exceeding the national median by nearly $24,000.

The debt picture works in your favor here. At $19,053, graduates borrow less than both national and state medians, and that 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio means the initial loan is manageable even during those lean first years. Among Nevada's limited economics options, UNLV trails only UNR (which starts higher at $47,766), but UNLV's eventual outcomes suggest different career pathways rather than inferior quality—possibly more graduates entering gaming, hospitality management, or consulting roles that ramp up gradually.

The key consideration is whether your child can weather that first year financially. If they can secure family support or part-time income during the initial career phase, this program's long-term trajectory justifies the modest debt investment. The 96% admission rate makes it accessible, and the eventual earnings suggest the education delivers—just not immediately.