International Relations and National Security Studies at Oakland University

Is a degree in international relations and national security worth nearly $25,000 in debt when comparable Michigan programs suggest first-year earnings around $36,000? The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 isn't catastrophic—it means roughly eight months of gross income to cover the debt—but it's not particularly encouraging either. Similar programs across Michigan show a wide spread, from around $28,000 to nearly $39,000 in first-year earnings, which suggests the quality of program and student preparation matters considerably.

The challenge here is that these figures come from just three similar programs statewide, making it difficult to gauge where Oakland University specifically falls in that range. What we do know is that the field itself tends toward modest early earnings: nationally, the median sits at $37,000, meaning even successful graduates in this major rarely see impressive starting salaries. This is a field where career progression often requires additional credentials or security clearances that take time to obtain.

For an anxious parent, here's the practical concern: you're looking at a degree that likely requires patience and possibly further education to pay off financially. If your child is passionate about policy, diplomacy, or security work and understands that entry-level positions may pay modestly while they build expertise, this path can work. But if they're uncertain about the field or expect immediate financial returns, the estimated debt burden relative to typical early earnings suggests exploring more applied majors or confirming that Oakland's specific program offers distinctive placement outcomes worth investigating directly with the school.