Political Science and Government at Colby College

Colby's political science graduates earn $54,353 in their first year—about 52% more than the national median and 32% above Maine's median for this major. Among Maine's nine programs, Colby ranks second only to Bowdoin, placing it in the 80th percentile statewide. The $27,000 median debt is actually higher than both state and national medians, but here's the crucial advantage: that debt represents just six months of first-year earnings, a 0.50 ratio that ranks in the 5th percentile nationally (meaning only 5% of programs have lower debt burdens relative to earnings).

The comparison to Maine peers is telling. Colby's graduates out-earn those from Bates by $13,000 annually while carrying just $7,400 more in debt—a tradeoff that favors Colby substantially. Compared to the University of Maine, Colby grads earn $16,000 more with $7,400 additional debt. The premium appears justified by outcomes.

For a 7% admission rate school with 1500 average SATs, these earnings might seem modest compared to STEM or business programs, but they're exceptional for political science. The major caveat: political science careers often involve graduate school, and these numbers only capture the immediate post-graduation picture. For families comfortable with Colby's sticker price and viewing the bachelor's degree as a stepping stone rather than terminal credential, the manageable debt and strong alumni network make this a solid foundation.