Outcomes-based program rankings.
Program outcomes at Colby College vary significantly by field of study, reflecting different career trajectories and market demands across liberal arts disciplines. The analysis below evaluates programs based on graduate earnings, debt levels, and return on investment rather than reputation or academic prestige.
Analyzing 10 programs with available earnings data.
These highlights surface programs that stand out for earnings performance, national rankings, and enrollment patterns within Colby's liberal arts framework.
#17 nationally
$63K 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, national rankings, debt load, and cohort size.
These sections represent the complete set of ranked undergraduate programs at Colby College.
Biology represents the primary science offering with 30 graduates earning $30,771, ranking #354 nationally. These lower earnings typically reflect the pre-professional nature of biology education, with many graduates continuing to medical school, graduate programs, or research positions before entering higher-earning careers.
The program provides strong preparation for health professions and research careers requiring advanced degrees. Best suited for students committed to graduate education and research-oriented career paths.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology, General. | #359 | $30,771 | — |
Program rankings reflect labor market outcomes rather than academic prestige, helping students understand career implications of major selection. Different programs at the same institution produce varied earnings due to distinct career paths, industry demand, and graduate school continuation rates. Applied Economics leads Colby's programs with $102,153 earnings and top-20 national ranking, while Biology shows lower initial earnings of $30,771 reflecting pre-professional pathways requiring additional education. Data comes from federal College Scorecard records tracking graduates 10 years post-enrollment, with cohort size indicating confidence levels. Rankings compare outcomes across all institutions nationally offering the same major, providing context for program performance beyond institutional reputation.
Median earnings 10 years post-enrollment
Debt burden relative to earnings
Institutional contribution to outcomes
recent graduates
| 30 |
This group shows varied outcomes, from Psychology graduates earning $51,623 to American Government and Politics students earning $47,118. Psychology ranks #110 nationally with solid market positioning, while Government students face more competitive career landscapes.
Both programs graduate meaningful cohorts (32 and 52 students respectively) but show moderate earnings reflecting the diverse career paths typical of social science majors. Best suited for students planning graduate study or public service careers.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics. | #17 | $102,153★ | — | 69 |
| Psychology, General. | #107 | $51,623 | — | 32 |
| American Government and Politics (United States). | #168 | $47,118 | — | 52 |
| Anthropology, General.Small sample | #40 | $44,971 | — | 11 |
Catalan Language and Literature represents a unique specialized program graduating 33 students earning $42,326. This highly specific program reflects Colby's liberal arts breadth and commitment to language education.
Rankings are less meaningful given the specialized nature, but earnings reflect the typical humanities career trajectory emphasizing long-term professional development over immediate income. Best suited for students committed to language, culture, and international education careers.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catalan Language and Literature. | #71 | $42,326★ | — | 33 |
| English Language and Literature, General.Small sample | #202 | $41,193 | — | 14 |
Environmental Science graduates 62 students earning $44,699 and ranks #35 nationally, demonstrating Colby's commitment to environmental education. This program combines strong national recognition with moderate earnings reflecting the non-profit and government career paths common in environmental work.
The large cohort size indicates student demand for environmental education. Best suited for students passionate about environmental careers and comfortable with public service compensation levels.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | #32 | $44,699 | — | 62 |
International/Globalization Studies ranks #5 nationally with graduates earning $62,539, representing one of Colby's most distinctive programs. With 41 graduates annually, this program demonstrates how interdisciplinary approaches can produce strong market outcomes.
The high national ranking reflects Colby's strength in preparing students for international careers, non-profit work, and graduate study. Best suited for students interested in global affairs and cross-cultural career paths.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International/Globalization Studies. | #5 | $62,539★ | — | 41 |
| African Studies. | #30 | $48,989 | — | 22 |
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.
