Economics at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill's economics program delivers exceptional value that many parents overlook. With first-year earnings of $65,344—ranking in the 85th percentile nationally and 80th percentile in North Carolina—graduates significantly outperform typical economics majors who earn around $52,000 nationally and $46,000 in-state. More importantly, students graduate with just $15,843 in debt, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 that's among the best you'll find for any four-year program.

The financial advantage becomes even clearer when compared to North Carolina peers. While Duke economics graduates earn more initially, UNC students carry roughly half the typical debt load while still earning substantially more than graduates from other respected programs like Wake Forest or East Carolina. The 21% earnings growth over four years suggests strong career trajectory potential, with median salaries reaching nearly $80,000 by year four.

For families concerned about college affordability, this represents one of the strongest risk-adjusted returns available. The combination of prestigious state university credentials, below-average debt, and above-average earnings creates a compelling value proposition that's hard to match, even at more expensive private institutions.