Outcomes-based program rankings.
Program outcomes at Princeton University vary significantly by field of study, though most programs deliver strong earnings relative to national averages. The rankings below evaluate programs based on graduate earnings, debt levels, and return on investment—not prestige or reputation.
Analyzing 13 programs with available earnings data.
These highlights surface programs that stand out across earnings, national ranking, and enrollment size at Princeton.
#20 nationally
$100K 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 Princeton University.
Engineering programs at Princeton deliver exceptional outcomes with Computer Science ranking #21 nationally and Operations Research ranking #2 nationally. Earnings span from $100,354 to $146,624, placing both programs well above national averages.
These programs attract substantial enrollment with Computer Science graduating 158 students annually. This group is best suited for students seeking technical careers with strong earning potential and national recognition.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Science. | #20 | $146,624 |
These rankings reflect post-graduation labor market outcomes for Princeton graduates, not program quality or academic reputation. Different programs produce different earnings because graduates enter varied career fields with different compensation structures. Computer Science graduates typically enter technology careers with high starting salaries, while Education Policy graduates often pursue public service or graduate study with different earning trajectories. Rankings are based on federal College Scorecard data tracking graduates' earnings six to ten years after college, requiring minimum cohort sizes for reliable reporting. Princeton's program portfolio focuses on research-oriented disciplines rather than pre-professional programs, which influences the mix of available majors and corresponding outcomes. Value scores combine earnings, debt, and completion data to assess overall return on investment within each field nationally.
Median earnings 10 years post-enrollment
Debt burden relative to earnings
Institutional contribution to outcomes
recent graduates
| — |
| 158 |
| Operations Research. | #2 | $100,354 | — | 69 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | #99 | $85,328 | — | 52 |
Science programs range from lower early-career earnings to strong long-term potential. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology graduates earn $37,568 initially, while Aquatic Biology ranks #3 nationally earning $53,038.
These programs often reflect pre-professional pathways to graduate school, with 27.6% of Princeton graduates continuing advanced study. Best suited for students pursuing research or medical careers.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aquatic Biology/Limnology. | #3 | $53,038★ | — | 46 |
| Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. | #61 | $37,568 | — | 56 |
| Neuroanatomy. | #58 | $32,647 | — | 25 |
Social science programs show varied outcomes, with American Government earning $47,260 and Applied Sociology earning $44,942. Education Policy Analysis ranks #5 nationally despite lower earnings of $62,012, reflecting career paths in public service.
These programs typically serve students pursuing government, policy, or public service careers where financial returns may prioritize mission over maximum earnings.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Applied Economics. | #22 | $103,078★ | — | 126 |
| Education Policy Analysis. | #5 | $62,012 | — | 108 |
| American Government and Politics (United States). | #173 | $47,260 | — | 70 |
| Applied/Public Sociology. | #137 | $44,942 | — | 31 |
| Behavioral Neuroscience. | #45 | $33,993 | — | 40 |
Humanities programs demonstrate solid outcomes with English Literature earning $47,260 and American History earning $43,798. American History ranks #69 nationally and #4 in New Jersey with 73 graduates annually.
These programs balance intellectual pursuit with practical career outcomes, serving students interested in law, education, or communication fields where Princeton's network provides career advantages.
| Program | National Rank | Median Earnings | Median Debt | Cohort Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | #74 | $47,260★ | — | 42 |
| American History (United States). | #73 | $43,798 | — | 73 |
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.
