Political Science and Government at Marian University

A debt load of $27,000 against first-year earnings around $35,000 lands this program squarely in the middle of what political science degrees typically deliver—neither a standout nor a red flag. Based on similar programs across Indiana, graduates can expect to earn close to the state and national median for this major, putting them roughly on par with what most political science students achieve. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77 is reasonable, though it means nearly a full year's salary will go toward repayment obligations.

The challenge here is context: top Indiana programs like Notre Dame and DePauw show that political science graduates can earn $44,000 to $55,000 in their first year, suggesting that institutional prestige and networking opportunities matter significantly in this field. Marian's 95% admission rate and the relatively modest estimated earnings indicate this program isn't positioned to compete at that level. For students eyeing graduate school, law school, or careers in public service where starting salaries matter less than long-term trajectory, the debt burden is manageable. But parents should recognize that this degree doesn't appear to open doors dramatically wider than what the field generally offers.

The practical reality: if your child is passionate about political science and Marian feels like the right fit, the financial picture isn't problematic. Just understand that career outcomes will likely depend heavily on what your student does beyond the classroom—internships, networking, and post-graduate plans—rather than the degree itself creating immediate earning power.