Analysis
In Oklahoma, political science bachelor's programs cluster tightly around $37,000-$38,000 in first-year earnings, and this program's estimated trajectory fits that state pattern. With estimated debt of $24,625—slightly above both state and national medians—graduates would face monthly payments around $275 on a standard 10-year plan, which represents roughly 9% of gross income based on comparable program outcomes. That's manageable territory, though it leaves less cushion than some parents might hope for when launching a career that often requires additional credentials or unpaid internships.
The real consideration here isn't the debt load itself but what political science graduates typically do next. Many pursue law school, graduate programs, or public service roles where initial earnings stay modest for years. Based on peer programs, this degree appears positioned as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential. If your child is committed to law school or a master's program, the undergraduate debt matters less than keeping those totals in check. But if they're planning to enter the workforce directly—whether in nonprofit work, campaign operations, or entry-level government roles—$37,000 reflects the reality of those fields, and adding $25,000 in debt compresses already-tight budgets during crucial early career years when networking and geographic flexibility often matter more than salary.
Where Oklahoma Christian 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,900 | $37,401* | — | $24,625* | — | |
| $8,522 | $38,063* | $38,115 | $29,000* | 0.76 | |
| $9,595 | $37,401* | $63,478 | $23,000* | 0.61 | |
| $10,234 | $33,484* | — | $21,107* | 0.63 | |
| National Median | — | $35,627* | — | $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 Christian University, approximately 30% 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.