Business Economics at The University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Business/Managerial Economics
72 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
73
Optimistic
72
Base Case
69
Pessimistic
Earnings $55,550/yr (4% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (53% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (105,700 openings/yr)
ROI 19.4x earnings multiple (7.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #4 of 81 Business/Managerial Economics programs Top 5%

Program Analysis

Your strong showing for Business/Managerial Economics at Alabama isn't just about raw numbers; it reflects a program adept at connecting a robust analytical curriculum with real-world demand. As a flagship public institution, UA leverages its expansive alumni network and Manderson College of Business's reputation to funnel graduates into key regional industries. You'll find strong pipelines to roles in financial analysis, market research, and management consulting across the Southeast, from Birmingham's finance hubs to Atlanta's diverse corporate landscape, and even local manufacturing. This applied economics foundation, emphasizing data interpretation and strategic thinking, explains your strong career trajectory. Given the 'very high' AI risk in many analytical fields, your critical thinking will be paramount; actively seek internships that blend quantitative analysis with strategic problem-solving to future-proof your skills.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $986K $923K $779K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 20.7x 19.4x 16.4x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.4x 7.0x 5.9x
Probability of Field Employment 66% 58% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 73 72 69

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$47,600
Out-of-state: $132,800 (7.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$88,600
-86% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,500
4.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$103,502
86% growth from Year 1

About The University of Alabama

A 76% acceptance rate means The University of Alabama is accessible to most applicants, with 32,323 students enrolled in Tuscaloosa, AL.

See all programs and financial aid at The University of Alabama →

Top Career Paths

Economics teachers, postsecondary $119,980/yr
Economists $115,440/yr
Financial risk specialists $106,000/yr
View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Business Economics at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for Business Economics at The University of Alabama?
This program scores 72/100 — placing it among the stronger programs for Business Economics nationally. The score reflects above-average earnings, manageable AI risk, and solid financial return.
Will AI replace Business Economics careers?
With 53% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $778,954 in decade earnings vs $985,882 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
What makes The University of Alabama's Business Economics program stand out?
Ranked #4 of 81 programs nationally, The University of Alabama lands in the top 5%. The ranking reflects a combination of graduate earnings, return on investment, and job market alignment.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →