Political Science and Government at Kansas State University

Kansas State's political science program starts slow but delivers impressive earnings growth—median salaries jump from $32,289 to $56,647 between year one and year four. That's a 75% increase that ultimately places graduates well above both the national median ($35,627) and the Kansas median ($31,372). Within the state, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, outperforming most Kansas alternatives including Wichita State and Fort Hays State, though trailing slightly behind KU's $33,700 starting figure.

The $25,000 debt load is reasonable and becomes increasingly manageable as earnings climb. The initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77 looks modest compared to many liberal arts programs, and by year four, graduates are earning more than double their debt burden. That trajectory matters significantly for political science majors, who often pursue government positions or graduate degrees where mid-career earnings matter more than starting salaries.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary substantially. Still, for Kansas families considering in-state options, K-State's combination of accessible admissions, moderate debt, and strong earnings progression makes it a competitive choice—particularly for students planning to work in Kansas, where these graduates appear to fare relatively well.