Political Science and Government at Idaho State University

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.