Economicsat Vanderbilt University
Graduates earn $84,311/yr in their first year — about 56.0% above the national Economics average. Base-case 10-year earnings $1,045K; scenarios range from $843K to $1,107K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Vanderbilt University
Vanderbilt's Economics program, rooted in an elite academic environment, consistently equips graduates with a powerful toolkit of analytical and quantitative skills highly valued across industries. Your strong foundation in economic theory and data interpretation positions you for competitive roles in consulting, financial services, and the burgeoning tech sector, often leading to strategic positions well beyond Nashville. The program's rigor and extensive alumni network open doors to opportunities requiring sophisticated problem-solving and critical thinking.
The data's indication of evolving AI risk for economics careers points to the field's dynamic nature. Rather than displacement, anticipate significant *augmentation* as AI tools enhance analytical capabilities. To thrive, actively seek out coursework or extracurriculars that integrate advanced statistical software, programming languages, and an understanding of machine learning applications within economic analysis. This proactive approach will ensure you're leading, not just adapting, to the future of economic work.
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 Vanderbilt 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 Vanderbilt University stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Vanderbilt University
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Vanderbilt 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 Vanderbilt University
What does a 74/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Economics at Vanderbilt University?
At 74/100, this is a high-performing program. The DegreeOutlook Score combines earnings, AI resilience, and ROI — and this program delivers on all three.
Should I worry about AI if I study Economics at Vanderbilt University?
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 Vanderbilt University one of the best schools for Economics?
Among 351 Economics programs, Vanderbilt University's #51 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
What do students actually pay for Economics at Vanderbilt University?
The 70% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $255,784. At a net cost of $76,160, the earnings multiple improves substantially.