Analysis
Idaho State's political science program starts graduates at just $28,617—well below both the national median ($35,627) and the $30,634 Idaho state average. Even among Idaho's seven political science programs, this ranks in only the 40th percentile, trailing both BYU-Idaho and Boise State by roughly $4,000 in first-year earnings. The $31,000 debt load, meanwhile, exceeds what most Idaho grads carry for this major ($21,572 median), creating a debt burden that nearly matches the entire first year's salary.
The bright spot is substantial earnings growth: graduates nearly double their income by year four, reaching $42,281. That trajectory suggests the degree opens doors over time, even if the initial placement is weak. However, these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, which means a few outlier outcomes could skew the picture significantly.
For families considering this program, the initial economics are challenging compared to peer institutions in Idaho. Unless your student has strong reasons to choose Idaho State specifically—location, campus fit, or a particular faculty connection—the data suggests looking at Boise State or BYU-Idaho for better starting outcomes in this field.
Where Idaho State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all political science and government bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Idaho State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho State University | $28,617 | $42,281 | +48% |
| Yale University | $57,466 | $98,467 | +71% |
| Brigham Young University-Idaho | $32,983 | $55,961 | +70% |
| University of Idaho | $27,881 | $49,018 | +76% |
| Boise State University | $32,650 | $45,739 | +40% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Idaho
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Idaho (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Idaho State UniversityPocatello | $8,356 | $28,617 | $42,281 | $31,000 | 1.08 |
 Brigham Young University-IdahoRexburg | $4,656 | $32,983 | $55,961 | $16,551 | 0.50 |
 Boise State UniversityBoise | $8,782 | $32,650 | $45,739 | $21,500 | 0.66 |
 University of IdahoMoscow | $8,816 | $27,881 | $49,018 | $21,643 | 0.78 |
| National Median | — | $35,627 | — | $23,500 | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with political science and government graduates
Political Scientists
Economists
Environmental Economists
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
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 Idaho State University, approximately 27% 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 20 graduates with reported earnings and 23 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.