Political Science and Government at Briar Cliff University

When comparable political science programs in Iowa produce first-year earnings around $36,600, the estimated debt load of $21,000 creates a manageable financial picture—graduates would owe roughly seven months of their starting salary. That's better than the national median debt of $23,500 for this degree, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 suggests reasonable monthly payments relative to income.

The challenge lies in what political science degrees typically lead to. Many graduates pursue law school, public service, or nonprofit work—paths that either delay earnings or offer modest starting salaries regardless of where you earned your bachelor's degree. Similar programs across Iowa show wide variation, from $21,000 to $39,000 in first-year earnings, reflecting these diverse career trajectories. The estimated $36,600 sits near the middle of that range and matches the state median.

For families considering Briar Cliff specifically, recognize that these figures come from peer institutions, not this program's actual graduates. If your child plans to work immediately after graduation in Iowa, the debt burden appears reasonable. But if graduate school is likely—especially with its own financing needs—starting with $21,000 in undergraduate debt becomes the foundation of a much larger obligation. The estimated numbers suggest affordability, but your decision should account for post-graduation plans that these statewide averages can't capture.