Analysis
Brandeis graduates start modestly but experience impressive momentum—earnings jump 50% from $39,943 to just over $60,000 within four years, outpacing typical trajectories for public policy bachelor's degrees. While that first-year salary sits below the national median for this field, the four-year figure suggests graduates are landing meaningful roles in government, nonprofits, or consulting.
The debt picture looks reasonable at $25,000, with a first-year ratio of 0.63 that improves substantially as earnings accelerate. Within Massachusetts, this program ranks at the 60th percentile—a respectable middle-of-the-pack position among the handful of schools offering public policy degrees in the state. The national 33rd percentile ranking matters less here, since Brandeis graduates appear to gain ground quickly rather than peaking early.
For families concerned about immediate post-graduation finances, that $40,000 starting point requires planning—it's not a quick payoff. But the strong upward trajectory and manageable debt load make this a viable path for students serious about policy work. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests these figures are reasonably reliable, though individual outcomes will vary based on the specific roles graduates pursue.
Where Brandeis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all public policy analysis bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Brandeis University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brandeis University | $39,943 | $60,055 | +50% |
| Dickinson College | $61,592 | $109,508 | +78% |
| Duke University | $60,501 | $97,427 | +61% |
| Cornell University | $77,906 | $88,830 | +14% |
| University of Chicago | $60,057 | $85,597 | +43% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Public Policy Analysis bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Brandeis UniversityWaltham | $64,946 | $39,943 | $60,055 | $25,000 | 0.63 |
 Cornell UniversityIthaca | $66,014 | $77,906 | $88,830 | $15,750 | 0.20 |
 Princeton UniversityPrinceton | $59,710 | $73,630 | — | $10,527 | 0.14 |
 Dickinson CollegeCarlisle | $63,475 | $61,592 | $109,508 | — | — |
 Duke UniversityDurham | $65,805 | $60,501 | $97,427 | $10,500 | 0.17 |
 University of ChicagoChicago | $66,939 | $60,057 | $85,597 | $17,492 | 0.29 |
| National Median | — | $44,740 | — | $22,000 | 0.49 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with public policy analysis graduates
Political Scientists
Medical and Health Services Managers
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Education Teachers, Postsecondary
Legislators
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
Social Science Research Assistants
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Brandeis University, approximately 14% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 89 graduates with reported earnings and 92 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.