International Relations and National Security Studies at Manhattan University

A $36,754 starting salary—the midpoint for international relations programs across New York—paired with $23,797 in debt creates a manageable but hardly impressive financial foundation for Manhattan University's program. The 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable bounds, but that's about the best that can be said when peer programs at Fordham and Hamilton are launching graduates into careers earning $10,000 more annually. These estimates, drawn from comparable New York programs, suggest this degree opens doors to entry-level positions in nonprofits, government agencies, or corporate roles that value international expertise—but rarely the competitive think tank or diplomatic posts that justify the "national security studies" billing.

The practical challenge here is opportunity cost. While the debt load won't be crushing, graduates will likely spend their first few years managing loans on modest nonprofit or public sector salaries rather than building savings or investing in graduate credentials that this field typically requires for advancement. Manhattan's 78% admission rate and mid-range SAT profile suggest it's attracting students who might not have access to the more selective programs commanding higher salaries, but that doesn't change the economic reality: you're paying private university tuition for outcomes that mirror the state median.

If your child is genuinely committed to international affairs and needs to stay in the New York area, this program won't derail their finances. But compare actual costs carefully against SUNY Geneseo, which produces identical outcomes at a fraction of the price, or push for merit aid that brings total debt well below $20,000.