International Relations and National Security Studies at American University

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.