Outcomes-based program rankings.
Program outcomes at Carleton College vary significantly by field of study. The rankings below evaluate programs based on graduate earnings, debt levels, and return on investment—not prestige or reputation.
Use this page to compare how different majors perform in the labor market.
Analyzing 11 programs with available earnings data.
These highlights surface programs that stand out across earnings, national ranking, and enrollment size.
#38 nationally
$48K median earnings
This bar shows the range of median earnings across all majors at this school.
The tables below compare programs in each category by earnings, rank, debt, and cohort size.
These sections represent the complete set of ranked undergraduate programs at Carleton College.
Computer Science dominates this category at Carleton, ranking #37 nationally with strong $116,048 median earnings and serving the largest student population. This program stands out for combining liberal arts education with technical training, producing graduates who earn well above typical liberal arts outcomes.
The program is well-suited for students seeking technical careers within a broader intellectual framework.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | #38 | $116,048 | — | 71 |
Program rankings reflect labor market outcomes two to four years after graduation, not academic reputation or prestige. Earnings differences occur because graduates enter different industries, pursue graduate education at varying rates, and follow distinct career trajectories. Liberal arts graduates often experience delayed but substantial career advancement as they move into leadership roles requiring broad intellectual skills. Data comes from the federal College Scorecard, requiring minimum cohort sizes for privacy protection. Rankings compare outcomes within each major across all institutions offering that program, providing objective measures of post-graduation success. Students should consider both immediate earnings and long-term career potential when evaluating program choices.
Median earnings 10 years post-enrollment
Debt burden relative to earnings
Institutional contribution to outcomes
recent graduates
Science and mathematics programs show varied outcomes, with Biology serving 61 graduates earning $40,859 and Mathematics graduates earning $37,568. Chemistry produces earnings of $36,141 with smaller cohorts.
These programs typically prepare students for graduate study or research careers, with earnings reflecting early-career positions rather than long-term potential in scientific fields.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acoustics.Small sample | #63 | $42,774★ | — | 14 |
| Biology, General. | #256 | $40,859 | — | 61 |
| Geochemistry and Petrology.Small sample | #56 | $40,371 | — | 17 |
| Algebra and Number Theory. | #165 | $37,568 | — | 47 |
| Analytical Chemistry. | #144 | $36,141 | — | 27 |
Behavioral Neuroscience ranks #26 nationally with graduates earning $39,238, representing strong performance in an emerging interdisciplinary field. The program combines psychology and biology training, preparing students for graduate study in neuroscience or related health fields.
This reflects Carleton's strength in innovative academic programs bridging traditional disciplines.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics. | #63 | $83,775★ | — | 45 |
| Behavioral Neuroscience. | #29 | $39,238 | — | 41 |
This group spans from Cinematography (#1 nationally, $48,388 earnings) to English Literature ($22,329 earnings). Cinematography achieves exceptional value scores despite modest earnings, while English reflects typical liberal arts trajectories requiring graduate study or career development.
These programs prioritize intellectual development and creative expression over immediate earning potential.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cinematography and Film/Video Production. | #1 🏆 | $48,388★ | — | 28 |
| English Language and Literature, General. | #315 | $22,329 | — | 29 |
| Art History, Criticism and Conservation.Small sample | #253 | $21,964 | — | 19 |
Resources, cohort size, and graduation rates
Trajectory from early to mid-career
Why rankings may differ by program: A university's nursing program and business program can have entirely different outcome profiles. Our methodology surfaces these differences so you can evaluate programs — not just institutions.
