Economics at Washington University in St Louis

Washington University's economics program delivers exactly what you'd expect from a highly selective institution—but with one major advantage parents often overlook. While the $66,325 starting salary significantly outpaces Missouri's median ($46,583) and ranks in the 80th percentile statewide, the real story is the debt load. At just $14,110, graduates leave with roughly one-third the debt of the average economics major in Missouri, creating an unusually favorable financial position right from graduation.

That 0.21 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could theoretically pay off their student loans in about 2.5 months of gross earnings—a scenario almost unheard of among economics programs. The 22% earnings jump to $80,729 by year four shows strong career trajectory, and these graduates are clearly accessing better opportunities than peers at other Missouri schools. Keep in mind this data comes from a moderate sample size, so individual outcomes will vary more than at larger programs.

For families who can afford WashU's sticker price or qualify for strong financial aid, this program represents exceptional value. The combination of elite-level earnings with manageable debt means your child won't spend their twenties buried in payments, even if they pursue graduate school or lower-paying public sector work initially.