Economicsat Rice University
Graduates earn $78,814/yr in their first year — about 46.0% above the national Economics average. Base-case 10-year earnings $861K; scenarios range from $718K to $903K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Rice University
Rice University's strong academic reputation, especially in quantitative fields, ensures its Economics graduates are highly sought after. Located in Houston, a major economic hub with thriving energy, finance, and healthcare sectors, you'll find numerous opportunities to apply your analytical skills directly in the local corporate landscape. The program's rigorous curriculum, often emphasizing econometrics and data analysis, prepares students not just for traditional economist roles but also for high-impact positions in consulting, financial analysis, and data science. While AI advancements present shifts in some analytical tasks, Rice's emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving ensures you'll be adaptable. To thrive, actively seek internships that blend your economic theory with practical data tools, enhancing your marketability.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Rice University's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Economics
How Rice University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Rice University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Rice University, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Economics offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Economics trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Economics at Rice University
How does Rice University's Economics program score?
A score of 71/100 indicates strong financial outcomes. Rice University's Economics graduates fare well on earnings, job market size, and return on investment.
How vulnerable is Economics to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Economics careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 56% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is Economics at Rice University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $232,512, but the average net cost is $50,560 — a 78% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.