International Relations and National Security Studies at American Public University System

American Public University System's international relations program outperforms its online university peers by a significant margin. Graduates earn $48,142 in their first year—29% above the national median for this field and landing in the 84th percentile nationwide. More impressively, they carry just $13,410 in debt, well below both the national ($21,634) and West Virginia ($18,830) medians. That creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28, meaning graduates owe roughly three months of salary—an unusually favorable position for a social science degree.

The earnings trajectory strengthens the case: median pay jumps to $63,766 by year four, a 33% increase that suggests graduates successfully translate their credentials into career advancement, likely within federal agencies, defense contractors, or related sectors. While this ranks only at the 60th percentile among West Virginia's six programs offering this degree, that context matters less for a fully online program drawing students nationwide. The university's 25% Pell grant rate indicates it serves working adults and career-changers, not just traditional students.

For families weighing an affordable path into national security careers, this program delivers strong returns with minimal financial risk. The low debt load provides flexibility if graduates need to accept lower-paying entry positions to build security clearances or gain specialized experience.