Program Analysis
Graduates of California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo's Economics program earn $67,501/yr in their first year — 25% above the $53,966 national median, a strong market signal for this institution.
With a 17.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 18% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Economics career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $17,500 in median debt against $67,501 in first-year earnings, graduates can expect to clear their loan balance in under six months of full earnings.
Among 351 Economics programs nationally, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ranks #5 — elite territory by any measure of graduate financial outcomes.
A 32% earnings increase from $67,501 to $89,394 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.