Analysis
A Political Science degree from Oklahoma Baptist University carries an estimated debt load of $24,625βslightly above what peers typically face nationally but comparable to other Oklahoma programs. Based on similar programs in Oklahoma, first-year earnings hover around $37,401, which aligns closely with what graduates from the University of Oklahoma and University of Central Oklahoma earn in this field. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 suggests manageable repayment in theory, but that assumes your child secures work immediately in their field at these estimated salary levels.
What complicates the picture here is that both the earnings and debt figures are extrapolated from peer institutions rather than actual outcomes from OBU graduates. Political Science is notoriously variable in career pathsβsome graduates pursue graduate school, others work in campaigns or nonprofits at lower salaries, while some leverage the degree into unrelated corporate roles. The estimated $37,401 represents a statewide median, but individual outcomes depend heavily on career direction and networking success.
For a moderately selective Baptist university charging enough to generate nearly $25,000 in debt, you're banking on your child being strategic about internships and career planning. If they're considering law school or graduate work afterward, factor in additional borrowing. If they plan to work immediately after graduation, confirm they understand the competitive nature of political jobs in Oklahoma's limited market.
Where Oklahoma Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all political science and government bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,050 | $37,401* | β | $24,625* | β | |
| $8,522 | $38,063* | $38,115 | $29,000* | 0.76 | |
| $9,595 | $37,401* | $63,478 | $23,000* | 0.61 | |
| $10,234 | $33,484* | β | $21,107* | 0.63 | |
| National Median | β | $35,627* | β | $23,500* | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with political science and government graduates
Political Scientists
Economists
Environmental Economists
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Oklahoma Baptist University, approximately 31% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in OK. Actual outcomes may vary.