International Relations and National Security Studies at Arcadia University

Similar International Relations programs in Pennsylvania typically generate first-year earnings around $49,000—a figure that puts Arcadia's program well above the national median of $37,000 for this major. The estimated debt load of roughly $20,000 is manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 that's better than many liberal arts degrees. However, context matters here: Pennsylvania's International Relations landscape shows enormous variation, with top programs like Bucknell and Penn producing nearly 50% higher earnings.

The challenge with International Relations is that career paths vary wildly. Those $49,000 estimates reflect outcomes from graduates heading into consulting, government work, or corporate roles—but they also include those struggling in nonprofit positions or still searching for their niche. With an admission rate near 80%, Arcadia draws a different student profile than the elite institutions dominating this field, which could affect access to the internships and networks that make this degree pay off.

For families evaluating this investment, the key question isn't just affordability—the debt burden here is reasonable. It's whether your student has the drive and strategic thinking to leverage this degree effectively. International Relations opens doors, but you typically need graduate school, specific language skills, or competitive internships to reach solid earning potential. If your child is self-directed and clear about their post-graduation path, these numbers suggest a workable foundation. If they're still exploring, they're borrowing $20,000 for a degree that might require additional investment to become truly marketable.