Political Science and Government at Northwest University

Looking at comparable political science programs across Washington, the $40,175 estimated first-year earnings places Northwest University right at the state median—a reasonable but unremarkable starting point. The estimated $22,624 in debt creates a workable 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary. That's manageable territory, especially when weighed against the national median debt of $23,500 for this degree.

The reality check here is that political science bachelor's degrees don't command premium salaries straight out of college, regardless of where you earn them. The top-performing programs in Washington—Whitworth, Pacific Lutheran, and Seattle U—only push first-year earnings into the low $40,000s. Northwest's estimated outcomes align with this statewide pattern, suggesting their graduates face similar market conditions as peers across the state. That $40,000 threshold also sits at roughly the national 75th percentile for this major, meaning Washington's stronger economy appears to benefit political science grads.

For a parent evaluating this investment, the key question is whether your student has a clear path beyond the bachelor's degree. Political science often serves as a stepping stone to law school, graduate programs, or public service careers that build over time. The manageable debt load gives graduates flexibility to pursue those options without being financially hamstrung. If your student lacks that direction yet, the modest starting salary—while typical for the field—won't provide much cushion for exploration.