International Relations and National Security Studies at Benedictine University

Illinois International Relations and National Security Studies programs cluster tightly around $38,000 in first-year earnings, and Benedictine appears to sit right in that middle tier. With an estimated debt load of $21,375—close to both state and national medians—graduates would face a monthly payment of roughly $240 over ten years. That's manageable on a $38,000 salary, though it leaves limited room for big-city living expenses if students gravitate toward Chicago policy work.

The challenge here isn't the debt burden itself but the modest earning trajectory typical of this field. Northwestern's graduates earn $58,000 right out of the gate, demonstrating that institutional prestige opens doors in international affairs that mid-tier schools struggle to match. Even Wheaton College edges above $40,000. For students drawn to this major, the practical question becomes whether they're pursuing it as preparation for graduate school (where credentials matter enormously) or expecting the bachelor's alone to launch a career.

If your child is considering this path at Benedictine, understand that these estimated figures suggest a financially viable but not lucrative start. The debt won't crush them, but career advancement in this field often requires additional degrees or government service that may delay higher earnings. This works as a foundation degree, not a fast track to financial independence.