International Relations and National Security Studies at Doane University

A $21,500 debt load for a bachelor's degree that typically produces $37,000 in first-year earnings creates a workable starting point—the 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory if your child can land steady employment in their field. These figures come from peer programs nationally, since Doane's cohort is too small for the Department of Education to publish specific outcomes. The real challenge isn't the debt burden itself but rather what international relations graduates actually do after college and whether those paths align with your family's financial expectations.

International relations sounds prestigious, but the field typically funnels graduates toward government work, nonprofits, or entry-level corporate positions—sectors where advancement and higher salaries may require graduate degrees or security clearances. The $37,000 starting salary reflects this reality across similar programs. Meanwhile, only six Nebraska schools offer this major, limiting in-state networking opportunities compared to more common fields. Your child would likely need to consider relocating to Washington D.C., New York, or other hubs where these careers concentrate.

The estimated numbers suggest a financially survivable choice if your child has clear career goals within government, defense, or international organizations. But given the lack of program-specific data and Doane's small size, have direct conversations with their career services about actual alumni outcomes and job placement before committing.