Economics at University of North Carolina Asheville

UNC Asheville's economics program shows a stark disconnect between what graduates earn immediately after college and what they earn a few years later. That first-year figure of $28,301 ranks in just the 10th percentile among North Carolina economics programs—well below the state median of $46,425 and less than half what Duke or UNC Chapel Hill graduates earn. However, earnings more than double by year four to $52,466, suggesting graduates may be taking lower-paid internships or entry positions before transitioning into better-compensated work.

The modest debt load of $18,791 provides some cushion during those lean early years. Still, starting at under $30,000 means those first few years could be financially challenging, particularly if graduates remain in Asheville where living costs have risen. The sample size here is quite small (fewer than 30 graduates), which means these numbers could swing significantly with just a few data points—one graduate going to law school or another taking a nonprofit job could skew the averages.

For families considering this program, understand that you're likely looking at a difficult first year or two financially, even with the reasonable debt burden. The strong earnings growth suggests graduates eventually find their footing, but that trajectory depends heavily on individual career paths. If your child needs immediate earning power after graduation, this pattern should factor into your planning.