International Relations and National Security Studies at Bucknell University

Bucknell's International Relations and National Security Studies program launches graduates to first-year earnings of $77,312—dramatically outperforming even University of Pennsylvania's $65,559 and nearly double the national median of $37,198. With estimated debt around $20,125 based on comparable programs at the school, this represents one of the strongest financial outcomes in the field nationwide.

The earnings trajectory demands attention, though. That impressive $77,312 drops to $68,553 by year four—an 11% decline that's unusual for bachelor's degree holders. This pattern likely reflects the nature of entry positions these graduates secure: competitive fellowships, government roles, or nonprofit positions that start strong but may not offer the same salary growth as private sector careers. Even with this dip, fourth-year earnings still exceed what most peers in this field achieve right out of the gate.

The debt picture looks manageable regardless of this earnings pattern. At an estimated 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates would need less than a third of their first year's salary to cover their total borrowing—well below concerning thresholds. For parents weighing this investment, Bucknell appears to deliver exceptional access to high-caliber early opportunities in international affairs, though the long-term earnings path may depend heavily on which sector their child ultimately chooses.