International Relations and National Security Studies at Fordham University

Fordham's International Relations program commands a premium price, but unlike many peer institutions, graduates actually earn enough to justify it. With first-year earnings of $46,653—substantially higher than both the state median ($36,754) and national median ($37,198)—this program ranks in the 80th percentile among New York schools. That's especially notable given that New York hosts 37 such programs, including heavy hitters like Hamilton and Syracuse.

The debt picture looks even better: $25,843 is remarkably manageable for a private institution charging Fordham's tuition rates, and the 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary. Compare that to Hamilton grads who earn slightly less despite similar debt burdens, or Vassar grads who make $31,956 while carrying comparable debt loads. What really sets Fordham apart is the 44% earnings jump by year four—reaching $67,198 puts graduates firmly in middle-class territory and suggests their New York metro connections are paying dividends.

For parents worried about funding a private education for an international relations major—a field often criticized for weak earnings—Fordham makes a strong case. Your child gets access to UN headquarters, think tanks, and NYC's foreign policy establishment without the crippling debt that typically comes with prestigious urban schools. The robust sample size (100+ graduates) means these numbers aren't flukes. If your child is serious about this field and willing to work the New York advantage, this investment should pay off.