International Relations and National Security Studies at Clark University

Clark University's estimated outcomes for International Relations and National Security Studies align with the Massachusetts median—around $45,870 in first-year earnings against roughly $21,125 in debt. This debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 suggests manageable repayment, with monthly federal loan payments likely consuming under 6% of gross income. What's worth noting is that this estimated figure sits well above the national median of $37,200 for this major, suggesting that Massachusetts IR programs generally launch graduates into better-paying roles than their counterparts elsewhere.

The challenge with this program is that comparable programs in Massachusetts show dramatic variation. Tufts graduates earn over $54,000 while Mount Holyoke's start closer to $26,000—a gap that reflects the field's broad career paths, from think tanks and consulting to nonprofits and government work. Similar programs typically produce modest early earnings that can improve significantly with specialized skills or security clearances, but that trajectory isn't guaranteed.

For families investing in this degree, the reasonable debt load provides some cushion, but the wide range among peer institutions suggests outcomes depend heavily on the specific opportunities students create—internships, language skills, regional focuses—rather than the credential alone. If your student is strategically building expertise in a particular region or policy area, this program could justify the investment; if they're still exploring broadly, the field's variable outcomes warrant serious consideration.