Political Science and Government at Florida State University

Florida State's political science program hits its stride after graduation, with earnings jumping 63% by year four—reaching $56,627, well above what most poli sci grads see nationally. While the starting salary of $34,745 sits near the middle of the pack nationally, it's actually above the Florida median for this major. Among Florida's 30 political science programs, FSU ranks in the 60th percentile, trailing only a handful of private schools like Tampa and Rollins in year-one earnings.

The $18,700 debt load is notably lighter than both the national and state medians, giving this program a manageable 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's a meaningful advantage over Florida programs charging more while delivering similar starting salaries. The robust sample size confirms these aren't flukes—this is what FSU poli sci graduates actually earn.

The key question is whether your student can capitalize on that strong earnings trajectory. Those mid-career numbers suggest graduates are finding their way into law, policy, or corporate roles where the degree becomes more valuable over time. For an in-state student at FSU's tuition rates, this represents solid value—especially compared to pricier Florida alternatives that don't deliver proportionally better outcomes. Out-of-state students should weigh whether the premium tuition justifies starting near the national median.