Economicsat Stanford University
Graduates earn $98,104/yr in their first year — about 82.0% above the national Economics average. Base-case 10-year earnings $1,176K; scenarios range from $933K to $1,254K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Stanford University
Stanford's economics program consistently delivers exceptional outcomes, a testament to its rigorous curriculum, unparalleled faculty, and strategic location in Silicon Valley. The strong analytical and quantitative foundation you'll gain is highly sought after by a vast array of employers, from top-tier tech firms and venture capital funds to elite management consulting and finance companies, all of whom actively recruit on campus. Your access to this exclusive recruiting pipeline, coupled with a powerful alumni network, significantly shapes the career trajectories and robust earning potential you see.
While the "Very High" AI risk reflects the increasing automation in data analysis and forecasting common in economics, it also signals new opportunities. Many graduates leverage their economic insights in data science, product management, or strategic leadership roles within innovative companies. To truly maximize this degree, focus on complementing your economic theory with robust quantitative skills, perhaps through a minor in computer science or statistics, and seek internships that provide hands-on experience with data tools.
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 Stanford 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 Stanford University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Stanford University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Stanford 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 Stanford University
How does Stanford University's Economics program score?
A score of 76/100 indicates strong financial outcomes. Stanford 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 Stanford University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $249,936, but the average net cost is $48,544 — a 81% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.