International Relations and National Security Studies at Oakwood University

A $21,500 debt load for earnings around $37,000 lands squarely in manageable territory—the 0.58 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates from comparable International Relations programs nationally can typically handle their payments without financial strain. While we're working with estimates here because this program's graduate pool is too small for the Department of Education to report specific figures, Oakwood's numbers align closely with what similar programs produce across the country. The one Alabama school with reported data—The University of Alabama—shows graduates earning slightly less at $35,324, which suggests Oakwood's estimated outcome is reasonable for the state context.

What matters more than precision here is the pattern: International Relations bachelor's programs don't typically launch graduates into high-earning careers immediately. At $37,000, we're looking at entry-level government, nonprofit, or private sector work—fields where advancement often requires additional credentials or years of experience. For a family already concerned about return on investment, understand that this degree is often a stepping stone rather than a destination, and many successful careers in this field involve graduate school down the line.

The practical takeaway: if your child is genuinely committed to international affairs or security work, the estimated debt burden won't be crushing. But if they're uncertain about the field or hoping for immediate financial independence after graduation, the modest starting salary deserves serious consideration before committing.