International Relations and National Security Studies at Principia College

Principia College's International Relations program lacks specific outcome data, but peer programs in Illinois suggest graduates typically earn around $38,000 in their first year—a figure that barely edges above the national median for this major. With an estimated $21,375 in debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 sits in manageable territory, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary. That's not alarming, but it's not impressive either, especially when Northwestern's graduates in this field start at $58,000 and even Wheaton edges ahead at $40,000.

The zero percent Pell Grant enrollment raises questions about whether Principia's higher sticker price delivers proportional value. Similar programs across Illinois produce a wide range of outcomes, and without knowing where Principia actually lands in that spectrum, you're essentially betting on an unknown. International relations degrees can lead anywhere from government work to nonprofits to corporate roles, and first-year earnings often understate long-term potential—but that variability cuts both ways.

If your child is drawn to Principia for specific reasons—its Christian Science affiliation, small class sizes, or campus culture—understand that the financial picture remains unclear. The estimated debt load is serviceable, but you'll want concrete answers about where graduates actually land and what career support looks like before committing.