International Relations and National Security Studies at George Washington University
Bachelor's Degree
gwu.eduAnalysis
George Washington University's International Relations program ranks among the nation's elite, placing in the 95th percentile nationally with first-year earnings of $52,933—far above the national median of $37,198. However, in Washington DC's competitive landscape, the program sits at the 60th percentile, trailing Georgetown's $50,588 median and outpacing American University's $47,551. The $22,000 debt load is manageable, creating a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42.
The program's location advantage becomes clear over time, with earnings climbing 29% to $68,447 by year four. This growth trajectory reflects the value of GW's proximity to federal agencies, think tanks, and international organizations where IR graduates typically launch careers. While you'll pay more than at many universities, the debt burden remains reasonable—essentially equivalent to a modest car loan.
For parents considering this investment, GW delivers strong outcomes in a field where school prestige and location matter significantly. The combination of respected faculty, DC networking opportunities, and solid post-graduation earnings justifies the cost, particularly for students serious about careers in government, diplomacy, or international affairs.
Where George Washington University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international relations and national security studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How George Washington University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Washington University | $52,933 | $68,447 | +29% |
| Stanford University | $76,166 | $96,952 | +27% |
| Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey | $68,344 | $84,567 | +24% |
| Georgetown University | $50,588 | $70,549 | +39% |
| American University | $47,551 | $60,883 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in District of Columbia
International Relations and National Security Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in District of Columbia (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 George Washington UniversityWashington | $64,990 | $52,933 | $68,447 | $22,000 | 0.42 |
 Georgetown UniversityWashington | $65,081 | $50,588 | $70,549 | $17,500 | 0.35 |
 American UniversityWashington | $56,543 | $47,551 | $60,883 | $23,250 | 0.49 |
| National Median | — | $37,198 | — | $21,634 | 0.58 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with international relations and national security studies graduates
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At George Washington University, approximately 15% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 344 graduates with reported earnings and 403 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.