International Relations and National Security Studies at La Salle University

Based on comparable programs across Pennsylvania, La Salle's International Relations bachelor's degree appears positioned right at the state median, with estimated first-year earnings around $49,000 and debt near $20,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 suggests manageable repayment—roughly half a year's salary—but the broader picture reveals something important: this field has enormous earnings variability in Pennsylvania, with top programs like Bucknell producing $77,000 starters while others cluster in the mid-$30,000s nationally.

The estimated figures here track with Pennsylvania's overall median for these programs, which runs significantly higher than the national benchmark of $37,000. That $12,000 gap could reflect Philadelphia's cost of living and employment market, but without actual outcomes data from La Salle specifically, parents should recognize they're betting on a statewide trend rather than a proven track record at this school. The fact that one-third of students receive Pell grants suggests La Salle serves a population where debt burden matters considerably.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your student has the credentials and connections to break into the higher-earning opportunities in this field—think federal agencies, defense contractors, international NGOs—or whether they'll land in the lower-paying nonprofit or entry-level government roles common to many IR graduates. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable upside, but understanding La Salle's actual placement record and alumni network strength would be essential before committing.