Economics at University of Hawaii at Manoa

Honolulu, HI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
51 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
52
Optimistic
51
Base Case
55
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,041/yr (-35% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (56% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (293,500 openings/yr)
ROI 12.3x earnings multiple (4.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #324 of 351 Economics programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data for UH Manoa Economics graduates reflects the unique dynamics of Hawaii's labor market. The island economy, while robust in tourism and government, offers a different landscape than major mainland hubs, with fewer high-paying corporate finance or consulting roles that typically drive high economic major salaries elsewhere. Many graduates find rewarding careers in local government, non-profits, or small to medium-sized businesses, where compensation aligns with the regional cost of living and industry structure. Given the "Very High" AI risk for Economics nationally, focusing your studies on advanced data analysis, econometrics, and critical thinking skills will be crucial. Actively pursue internships with organizations like the State of Hawaii, local banks, or large hospitality groups, and network diligently to build a professional path that leverages your analytical abilities within the islands' specific opportunities.

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 $610K $598K $538K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.5x 12.3x 11.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.5x 4.4x 3.9x
Probability of Field Employment 66% 60% 41%
DegreeOutlook Score 52 51 55

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$48,744
Out-of-state: $136,872 (4.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$52,724
-8% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,000
6.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,682
67% growth from Year 1

About University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaii at Manoa accepts 70% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving 14,306 students in Honolulu, HI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Hawaii at Manoa →

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

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 51/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Economics at University of Hawaii at Manoa?
At 51/100, the score looks reasonable — but Economics is a high-scoring field overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
Should I worry about AI if I study Economics at University of Hawaii at Manoa?
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 University of Hawaii at Manoa a good choice for Economics despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Hawaii at Manoa'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 →