International Relations and National Security Studies at Culver-Stockton College

A bachelor's degree in International Relations from Culver-Stockton sits right at the national median for both estimated debt and first-year earnings—$21,500 borrowed against $37,200 in income. That 0.58 debt ratio is manageable compared to many liberal arts programs, but it's worth considering what $37,200 actually means in practice. That's roughly $2,400 monthly after taxes, leaving limited margin for rent, loan payments, and basic living expenses if you're launching a career in government, non-profits, or policy work where entry positions rarely pay more.

The real challenge here isn't the debt load—it's that International Relations careers often require geographic flexibility and graduate credentials to advance meaningfully. Similar programs nationwide produce these modest starting salaries across both selective and open-access institutions, suggesting the field itself rather than the school drives early earnings. With Culver-Stockton's 98% admission rate and relatively accessible pricing, you're not paying a premium for selectivity, which helps. But if your child is serious about this field, start conversations now about whether they'll need to relocate to DC, New York, or another policy hub, and whether graduate school is likely within five years. The debt here won't sink them, but it won't leave much runway for unpaid internships or additional education either.