Political Science and Government at Furman University

Furman's political science graduates face a challenging first year out—earning $34,473, which is actually slightly below the national median—but the program's real story emerges in the trajectory. By year four, earnings jump 68% to nearly $58,000, a growth rate that significantly outpaces typical patterns for this major. Within South Carolina, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, though it still trails The Citadel's graduates by about $10,000 at the four-year mark.

The debt picture deserves attention here: at $27,000, it's slightly above both state and national medians, though the 0.78 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically manage repayment once they get through that lean first year. The program's strength lies in placement or connections that help graduates level up their careers quickly—whether through graduate school, professional networks, or access to opportunities that pay off with a few years of experience.

For families able to weather modest debt and a below-median starting salary, Furman's political science program could work out well, particularly if your child plans to pursue law school, public policy graduate programs, or careers where that initial credential opens doors. If you need strong immediate earnings to handle loan payments, the first-year numbers are a legitimate concern, and you might want to understand exactly what's driving that year-four jump before committing.