Political Science and Government at Dickinson College

Dickinson's political science graduates start at $37,507 but see their earnings jump 55% to $58,207 by year four—that's the real story here. While the initial salary lands right at Pennsylvania's median for poli sci programs, this trajectory suggests graduates are finding their footing and moving into better-paying roles relatively quickly.

The $19,000 debt load is notably lighter than both the national ($23,500) and state ($26,000) medians, creating a manageable 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one. Within Pennsylvania, however, the program sits in the 40th percentile—meaning you're paying selective liberal arts tuition (14% Pell grant rate signals affordability isn't the priority) while initially earning similar to state school graduates. The gap between Dickinson and PA's top programs is substantial: Penn and Bucknell grads start $15,000-28,000 higher.

For families considering Dickinson specifically for political science rather than for the broader liberal arts experience, understand you're betting on career trajectory rather than immediate payoff. The strong earnings growth suggests alumni develop marketable skills and networks, but you'll need to be patient through those first couple years. If your child is drawn to Dickinson for reasons beyond this major, the modest debt keeps it from being a problematic choice.