Political Science and Government at Lawrence University

Based on comparable political science programs in Wisconsin, Lawrence graduates appear to land in the middle of the pack financially. The estimated first-year earnings of $38,634 track closely with the state median and sit comfortably above the national benchmark of $35,627. By year four, actual reported earnings of $39,224 show the modest progression typical of this field—these degrees rarely produce dramatic salary jumps early in a career.

The estimated debt of $22,500 is manageable relative to earnings, with a debt-to-income ratio of 0.58 suggesting graduates would need to dedicate roughly 12% of their gross income to federal loan payments under standard repayment. This compares favorably to both state and national debt figures for political science programs. However, Lawrence's selective profile (average SAT of 1349, only 21% Pell recipients) suggests many students come from families who can contribute meaningfully to college costs, potentially reducing actual borrowing below this estimate.

The real question is whether Lawrence's liberal arts environment justifies its price point when UW-Oshkosh and UW-Madison graduates earn 9-11% more in their first year. For students planning law school or graduate programs where the Lawrence name and small-class experience matter, this could work. For those heading straight to entry-level policy or nonprofit work, the UW system offers better early-career value with similar outcomes and likely lower total costs.