International Relations and National Security Studies at American University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
American University's International Relations program delivers solid financial returns, with first-year earnings of $47,551 that jump to nearly $61,000 by year four—a robust 28% growth trajectory. This places graduates well above the national median of $37,198, ranking in the 82nd percentile nationally for this field.
However, the DC market tells a more nuanced story. While AU graduates earn competitively, they fall in the 40th percentile among the district's five International Relations programs, trailing both Georgetown and George Washington. The $23,250 debt load is manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, meaning graduates typically owe less than half their first-year salary—a reasonable burden that becomes even more manageable as earnings grow.
The program's location advantage is clear: DC's median for this field ($50,588) far exceeds the national average, reflecting the concentration of government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations that hire these graduates. AU students access this premium job market while taking on debt levels that won't derail their financial future. For families seeking a respected International Relations program with strong earning potential and reasonable debt, AU represents a solid investment, even if it doesn't lead the pack locally.
Where American University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international relations and national security studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How American University graduates compare to all programs nationally
American University graduates earn $48k, placing them in the 82th percentile of all international relations and national security studies bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in District of Columbia
International Relations and National Security Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in District of Columbia (5 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American University | $47,551 | $60,883 | $23,250 | 0.49 |
| George Washington University | $52,933 | $68,447 | $22,000 | 0.42 |
| Georgetown University | $50,588 | $70,549 | $17,500 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $37,198 | — | $21,634 | 0.58 |
Other International Relations and National Security Studies Programs in District of Columbia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across District of Columbia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Washington University Washington | $64,990 | $52,933 | $22,000 |
| Georgetown University Washington | $65,081 | $50,588 | $17,500 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At American University, approximately 13% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 477 graduates with reported earnings and 504 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.