International Relations and National Security Studies at Bridgewater College

Is an International Relations degree worth $21,500 in debt when comparable Virginia programs suggest first-year earnings around $44,600? The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 sits in reasonable territory—you're looking at roughly half a year's salary in educational debt, which typically translates to manageable monthly payments. Based on peer programs across Virginia, these earnings estimates put Bridgewater's program in line with what graduates from larger state universities like Virginia Tech and George Mason are reportedly earning, though all trail the outcomes at William & Mary and UVA.

The challenge here is navigating uncertainty. With both earnings and debt figures derived from similar programs rather than Bridgewater's actual graduate outcomes, you're essentially betting that this small liberal arts college produces results consistent with the state median. The school's 91% admission rate and modest test scores suggest it serves a broader student population than Virginia's flagship institutions, which could cut either way—perhaps graduates benefit from smaller classes and personalized attention, or perhaps the program lacks the name recognition that opens doors in competitive government and NGO sectors where International Relations majors typically land.

Given the estimates align with national medians and don't raise immediate red flags, this could work if your student thrives in Bridgewater's environment and has clear plans for leveraging the degree. But recognize you're making this decision without knowing how *this specific program's* graduates actually fare in the job market.