International Relations and National Security Studies at Muskingum University

Based on comparable programs in Ohio, this international relations degree appears positioned near the state median, with estimated first-year earnings of $35,564 and estimated debt of $21,500. That 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory—graduates would owe roughly 60 cents for every dollar earned in their first year. However, it's worth noting that Ohio's international relations programs cluster on the lower end nationally, with the state median sitting $1,600 below the national benchmark of $37,198.

The estimated debt figure here actually runs about $4,000 less than what's typical for other Ohio programs in this field, which suggests Muskingum may offer a more affordable path than some in-state alternatives. Still, peer programs at schools like Miami University and Ohio State show first-year earnings closer to $38,000-$39,000, indicating that outcomes can vary significantly even within the same state. The field itself tends toward modest starting salaries regardless of school, as many international relations graduates enter nonprofit, government, or education sectors where early compensation lags behind business or technical fields.

For families evaluating this program, the key question is career trajectory: international relations can open doors to meaningful work, but often requires graduate education or years of experience before reaching higher earning potential. The estimated debt load won't be crushing, but parents should have realistic conversations about post-graduation plans and whether their student is prepared for a potentially longer financial runway to career stability.