International Relations and National Security Studies at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State graduates in International Relations outperform most of their Ohio peers, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide with four-year earnings of $55,030—nearly $20,000 above the state median. More importantly, these graduates show strong earnings momentum: that 43% jump from year one to year four suggests they're landing in career tracks with real advancement potential, not just entry-level positions with nowhere to go. The $38,584 starting salary might seem modest, but it's paired with below-average debt of $19,500 (about $6,000 less than typical Ohio graduates owe), creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51.

The trajectory here matters as much as the starting point. While International Relations degrees can sometimes lead to underpaid nonprofit work or endless unpaid internships, Ohio State's strong showing compared to programs at Miami University and especially Cincinnati suggests better placement outcomes—likely driven by the university's location in the state capital and connections to government employers. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates means this isn't a fluke from a handful of outliers.

For families worried about liberal arts degrees, this program offers a reassuring data point: disciplined borrowing combined with steady career progression. Your child won't start wealthy, but they'll start with breathing room and a clear upward path.