Political Science and Government at Bard College at Simon's Rock

Political science programs across Massachusetts show dramatic earnings variation, and this program sits right at the state median but faces stiff competition. Similar political science bachelor's programs in Massachusetts suggest first-year earnings around $43,000—respectable compared to the $35,600 national median, but far below what graduates from Tufts ($67,700) or Harvard ($61,500) typically earn. For a small liberal arts college with a 97% admission rate, these peer-program earnings suggest graduates are finding their footing in entry-level positions, though not commanding the premium that elite institutions secure.

The estimated $25,000 in debt creates a manageable 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio based on comparable programs, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary. That's workable, especially since political science careers often improve with experience in policy, advocacy, or law-related fields. The concern is whether the trajectory justifies the modest starting point—political science graduates who don't pursue graduate degrees or strategic internships can struggle to translate their degree into clear career advancement.

The core question is whether Simon's Rock's early college model—where students often start college after 10th or 11th grade—adds value that offsets the significant earnings gap with Massachusetts' top programs. If your child thrives in an accelerated, unconventional academic environment and plans strategically for career development, these estimated outcomes suggest a viable path. But if graduate school or competitive urban internships aren't part of the plan, that $18,000 gap compared to nearby elite programs becomes harder to ignore.