International Relations and National Security Studies at Florida State University

Florida State's International Relations program tells an unusual story: graduates start below the national median at $32,098 but experience exceptional 63% earnings growth to reach $52,157 by year four—well above the national median. While you rank 60th percentile within Florida, you're actually outperforming the state median by nearly $400, and most importantly, you're leaving behind competitors like University of Miami and University of South Florida who start at similar levels but don't show the same growth trajectory.

The $17,767 debt load is notably lower than both national and state medians, creating a manageable initial burden despite the modest starting salary. That 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one improves dramatically as earnings accelerate. With a robust sample size backing these figures at a selective institution (25% admission rate), this pattern appears reliable rather than anomalous.

The key question is whether your child can navigate those lean early years, possibly in entry-level government, nonprofit, or think tank positions. If they can weather that initial period—perhaps with family support or modest living arrangements—they're positioned for solid mid-career earnings that justify the investment. This isn't a get-rich-quick degree, but the growth trajectory suggests FSU is successfully placing graduates in careers with genuine advancement potential.