Program Analysis
Graduates earn $45,993/yr, roughly in line with the $53,966 national median for Economics. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 3.6x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 56% task exposure — and the 16% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
With first-year pay of $45,993 far exceeding the $19,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #300 out of 351 programs, Willamette University's financial outcomes for Economics trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $45,993 to $74,070 over five years (61% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.