Political Science and Government at Franciscan University of Steubenville

Similar political science programs in Ohio suggest earnings around $37,345 in the first year—right at the state median but lagging behind what graduates from Miami, Ashland, and Xavier typically earn. The estimated $26,000 in debt puts Franciscan's likely financial outcome squarely in the middle of Ohio's political science landscape, where debt levels across programs cluster between $23,500 and $26,000.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 indicates manageable loan payments, though it's worth recognizing that political science careers often require graduate degrees for advancement—meaning this bachelor's degree may represent just the first round of educational investment. Programs at this admission level typically produce similar early-career outcomes across Ohio, suggesting Franciscan's academic profile (72% admission rate, 1218 SAT) aligns with what you'd expect financially.

The real question is trajectory. Political science graduates who move into law, policy work, or government relations often see substantial earnings growth after those crucial first few years, but that path usually demands additional credentials. For families comfortable with this degree serving as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential, the estimated debt load won't create an insurmountable burden. But if your student expects immediate career launch with just the bachelor's, comparable Ohio programs suggest modest starting salaries that make loan repayment slow going.