Public Policy Analysis at DePaul University

Based on comparable public policy programs in Illinois, DePaul graduates can expect first-year earnings around $48,558—matching the state median and slightly outpacing the national benchmark of $44,740. The estimated debt load of $18,375 translates to a manageable 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly four and a half months of their first-year salary. While we're working with estimates here due to small sample sizes, these figures align with both state and national patterns for the field, suggesting reasonable economic positioning.

The challenge lies in context: public policy at the bachelor's level rarely leads to high-paying entry positions, and Chicago's policy job market—while robust—tends to favor graduate credentials for advancement. The estimated earnings put DePaul's program in the middle of Illinois offerings, considerably behind University of Chicago's $60,000 but ahead of UIC's $35,000. For students planning to enter the workforce immediately, this debt burden shouldn't be crippling, but many in this field pursue graduate degrees, which adds another layer of educational investment.

If your child sees this as a stepping stone to graduate school or nonprofit work they're passionate about, the numbers work. For those expecting bachelor's-level earnings to quickly repay loans and support independent living in an expensive city, the estimated $48,000 starting point deserves careful consideration against Chicago's cost of living.