International Relations and National Security Studies at Lehigh University

Lehigh's International Relations program shows a puzzling disconnect: while first-year earnings of $36,147 trail Pennsylvania's state median by nearly $13,000 (ranking just 25th percentile statewide), graduates nearly double their income within four years, reaching $74,038—well above both Bucknell and Penn graduates in this field. That dramatic 105% earnings jump suggests either a delayed career launch or that graduates need time to transition into roles where Lehigh's selective reputation (29% admission rate, 1432 average SAT) pays off. With debt of $21,250, you're looking at a manageable 0.59 debt-to-earnings ratio, even during that slower first year.

The catch is the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates in this dataset—which means one or two alumni outcomes could skew these numbers significantly. That said, the four-year trajectory points toward genuine earning potential rather than just statistical noise. For context, this program sits squarely in the middle nationally but lags behind Pennsylvania competitors like Bucknell and Penn, suggesting location and network matter considerably in this field.

If your child can weather a modest starting salary and has clear career goals in international affairs or security (where graduate degrees or federal hiring timelines often delay peak earnings), Lehigh's trajectory offers reassurance. But if they need immediate post-graduation income or aren't certain about this career path, the weak Pennsylvania ranking and slow start should factor into your decision.