Political Science and Government at Georgia State University

Georgia State's political science graduates face a challenging first year, earning $29,275—well below both the state median ($32,340) and national average ($35,627). At 40th percentile within Georgia, this program trails not just flagship UGA and Emory, but also regional competitors like Kennesaw State and University of North Georgia by $7,000-$10,000. The $26,000 debt load may seem manageable, but paired with that initial salary, it creates real financial strain in those early career years.

The saving grace here is earnings growth: salaries jump 67% to nearly $49,000 by year four, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing in Atlanta's job market. However, this delayed trajectory matters for someone making loan payments from day one. Georgia State serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (50%), and these students may not have family safety nets to cushion those lean early years.

For families choosing between Georgia State and other in-state options, the question becomes whether the lower entry point and Atlanta connections offset the weaker initial outcomes. If your child needs to be financially independent immediately after graduation, the comparatively stronger starting salaries at UGA or even University of North Georgia might justify any tuition difference. This program works best for students who can weather a slower start or who have specific reasons to be in Atlanta.