International Relations and National Security Studies at Oglethorpe University

Based on comparable programs in Georgia, International Relations graduates here can expect first-year earnings around $39,275—which lands right at the state median but leaves little financial cushion against an estimated $21,500 in debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 means you're looking at roughly half a year's salary owed, which is manageable but tight for a field where early career salaries often plateau quickly. For context, similar programs across Georgia range from about $28,000 to $45,000 in first-year earnings, suggesting outcomes depend heavily on whether graduates land competitive positions in government, think tanks, or corporate security roles versus more general administrative work.

Oglethorpe's smaller scale means we can't track this specific program's graduate outcomes, but peer programs nationally and in Georgia suggest this is a credential that requires strategic career planning. The estimated earnings barely edge above the national median of $37,198, and many graduates find themselves needing graduate degrees or security clearances to access higher-paying opportunities. Atlanta offers proximity to the CDC, Carter Center, and defense contractors, which could provide valuable internship and entry-level opportunities—but these connections aren't guaranteed.

The bottom line: If your child has clear career goals in diplomacy, intelligence, or defense and plans to pursue internships aggressively, this could work. But if they're broadly interested in "international affairs" without specific direction, consider that the debt burden is real while the salary trajectory remains uncertain until you see how well the program connects students to competitive opportunities.