International Relations and National Security Studies at Bethany College

Based on comparable international relations programs nationally, Bethany's program appears positioned right at the national median, with typical first-year earnings around $37,200 against estimated debt of $21,500. That 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory—graduates would be looking at roughly six months of income to cover their borrowing. However, it's worth noting that other West Virginia programs in this field show stronger outcomes: American Public University System's graduates earn nearly $11,000 more in their first year, while even Fairmont State edges slightly below Bethany's estimated figure.

The challenge with international relations degrees at smaller institutions is career placement. National security and diplomacy roles often cluster in Washington, D.C. or require graduate credentials, which means these first-year earnings may not tell the full story of long-term prospects. With 41% of Bethany students receiving Pell grants, that estimated debt load—while not catastrophic—represents a meaningful burden for families already stretching financially. Similar programs suggest graduates often need to supplement with internships, language skills, or additional degrees to reach competitive salaries.

For families weighing this program, the lack of school-specific data means you're making decisions in the fog. If your student is committed to this field and drawn to Bethany's small-college environment, the financial picture isn't alarming. But given stronger reported outcomes at other West Virginia schools, it's worth exploring whether those alternatives—or Bethany's other programs with actual graduate data—might offer more certainty about return on investment.