Political Science and Government at Auburn University

Auburn's political science graduates face a rough first year, earning about $3,400 below the national median and sitting in just the 29th percentile nationally. Within Alabama, they're slightly below the state median of $32,699 and trail Troy University's program by a considerable margin ($46,279). The debt load of $23,700 isn't excessive compared to peers, but coupled with that weak initial salary, it creates a challenging start for graduates.

The compelling twist here is what happens next: earnings nearly double by year four, jumping to $62,091. That's exceptional growth for a political science program and suggests graduates either find their footing in career paths with steep learning curves or successfully pivot into higher-paying fields. This trajectory transforms what looks like a weak investment initially into something far more competitive, though parents should understand their child may struggle financially in those early years.

The bottom line: If your student can weather a lean first year—perhaps with family support or minimal living expenses—this program's long-term trajectory is promising. But families counting on immediate post-graduation financial independence should look carefully at that $32,228 starting point and plan accordingly. The ultimate earnings justify the modest debt, but only if you can bridge that difficult first year.