Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $58,151 at American University come in 8% above the national median of $53,966 for Economics programs.
The financial case is thin at 3.0x — decade earnings barely exceed the cost of attendance. The value proposition here is driven by factors beyond pure ROI.
Some AI exposure exists in Economics's typical career paths, with 56% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 16% gap from the optimistic case.
With first-year pay of $58,151 far exceeding the $22,191 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
Ranked #255 of 351 Economics programs, American University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $58,151 to $77,219 over five years — a 33% increase that's moderate and in line with typical career progression.