International Relations and National Security Studies at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University graduates in International Relations start nearly $8,000 below the national median for their field, earning just under $30,000 in their first year—troubling numbers that place this program in the bottom quarter both nationally and within Arizona. While the debt load of roughly $20,600 seems manageable on paper, it represents more than two-thirds of first-year earnings, creating immediate financial pressure for recent graduates.

The silver lining here is trajectory: earnings jump 28% by year four to $38,171, essentially catching up to national benchmarks. However, this still lags behind Embry-Riddle's competing Arizona program by nearly $9,000. For a field where many careers require graduate degrees or security clearances that take time to obtain, these early-career struggles matter. Students planning to work immediately after graduation—rather than pursuing additional education—may find themselves stretched thin during those crucial first years when building financial stability.

If your child is drawn to international relations, they should have a clear plan for those initial lean years and understand that the degree's value depends heavily on what comes next—whether that's graduate school, federal employment, or private sector work. The program works best as a stepping stone, not a destination.