Political Science and Government at Centenary University

In New Jersey's competitive market for political science degrees, similar programs suggest Centenary graduates start around $35,600—right at the state and national median. With estimated debt of $27,000, slightly above the New Jersey average of $25,300, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76 lands in reasonable territory. A graduate could theoretically pay this off in under a year of gross earnings, though the reality of living expenses makes that more of a multi-year commitment.

The challenge here is context. New Jersey's public universities—particularly Rutgers and The College of New Jersey—report actual outcomes showing their political science graduates earning $39,700 to $40,200 in their first year. That's $4,000-$5,000 more annually than what comparable programs to Centenary's suggest. Over a career, those differences compound significantly. The school's 97% admission rate and 38% Pell population indicate it serves students who may have fewer alternatives, but that doesn't change the financial equation.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether Centenary offers something beyond what's available at the state's public options—perhaps smaller classes, specific internship connections, or transfer-friendly policies. The estimated debt burden isn't crushing, but without a clear advantage over institutions with stronger reported outcomes, it's difficult to justify the similar cost for potentially lower earnings.