Program Analysis
Southern Methodist University Economics graduates command $71,630/yr out of the gate, well above the $53,966 national median. That 33% premium suggests the program's reputation carries real labor-market weight.
An earnings multiple of 3.2x means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition, but not by a dramatic margin. Returns are positive but modest.
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 19% gap from the optimistic case.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $18,625 in median debt clears quickly against $71,630 in annual earnings.
At #174 of 351 Economics programs, Southern Methodist University scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Earnings grow from $71,630 to $96,927 over five years — a 35% increase that's moderate and in line with typical career progression.