International Relations and National Security Studies at Fairleigh Dickinson University-Metropolitan Campus

Similar international relations programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $37,000 for this bachelor's degree—below what peer New Jersey schools typically produce. Seton Hall graduates start at $45,000, while comparable programs statewide average $40,000. That $3,000 gap might not sound dramatic, but it compounds when you're managing debt.

Speaking of debt, estimates based on FDU's peer institutions suggest graduates carry about $21,500—roughly in line with national and state norms for this field. The resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 is manageable by most standards, meaning graduates should be able to service their loans on a typical entry salary. However, international relations careers often require expensive graduate credentials or unpaid internships to advance, factors that aren't captured in first-year earnings data.

The practical concern here is that you're likely paying private university tuition for outcomes that match the national median rather than exceeding it. With a 96% admission rate, FDU isn't offering the selectivity premium that sometimes justifies higher costs. If your child is committed to this field, comparing the actual cost of attendance here against New Jersey's public options—or schools with stronger reported outcomes like Seton Hall—would clarify whether the investment makes sense for your family's situation.