Program Analysis
At $78,814 per year, Economics graduates from Rice University significantly outpace the $53,966 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.
The 3.7x 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 21% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The median debt load of $11,644 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.
Ranked #108 out of 351 programs, Rice University's Economics offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $78,814 to $104,828 shows 33% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.