Economics at Drew University

Madison, NJ · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
48 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
49
Optimistic
48
Base Case
53
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,639/yr (-38% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (293,500 openings/yr)
ROI 5.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #334 of 351 Economics programs

Program Analysis

This Economics program at Drew, a liberal arts institution, typically sees graduates enter a job market where generalist skills are valued, but specialized quantitative or technical expertise often commands higher initial salaries. The curriculum likely emphasizes critical thinking and broad economic principles, which are excellent foundations but may not directly align with the most lucrative entry-level roles in finance or tech without further skill development. You'll find many graduates pursuing careers where strong analytical and communication abilities are key, often in management, non-profits, or public service. While proximity to New York City offers opportunities, you'll need to proactively leverage internships and networking to access competitive roles. To mitigate the high AI risk and differentiate yourself, consider pairing your economics degree with a minor in data science, computer science, or finance, focusing heavily on acquiring concrete, in-demand technical skills alongside your core studies.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Economics graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $1,016K $963K $787K
Earnings Multiple 5.6x 5.3x 4.3x
Probability of Field Employment 66% 60% 41%
DegreeOutlook Score 49 48 53

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$181,440
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$102,576
43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,914
9.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$89,492
166% growth from Year 1

About Drew University

Drew University's 69% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, a smaller institution with 1,510 students in Madison, NJ. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $102,576 — 43% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Drew University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Economics teachers, postsecondary $119,980/yr
Economists $115,440/yr
View all 9 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Economics at Other Schools

Other Majors at Drew University

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Economics at Drew University?
At 48/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Economics programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Economics at Drew University?
The 56% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Drew University a good choice for Economics despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Drew University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →