Analysis
Colorado political science programs show significant variation in outcomes, and while Regis University's actual graduate data remains unreported, similar programs in the state suggest median earnings around $37,750 in the first year—just above the national benchmark but trailing the state's top performers by several thousand dollars. Programs at CU Boulder, CU Denver, and Metro State all produce graduates earning $39,000-$40,000, which matters when you're considering where to invest four years and substantial tuition dollars.
The estimated debt load of $24,625 sits above Colorado's typical political science debt of $20,600, though the 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable by conventional standards. That ratio means roughly eight months of gross income would theoretically cover the entire debt—not ideal, but workable for graduates who secure steady employment. The challenge with political science degrees generally is that first-year earnings often represent a ceiling rather than a floor, as many graduates enter fields where advancement requires graduate education or years of experience building specialized expertise.
Given Regis's 87% admission rate and these estimated figures, parents should understand they're looking at a program that may deliver average outcomes at above-average debt levels compared to state peers. If your student is set on political science, programs at CU Boulder or Metro State appear to produce stronger early earnings with lower debt burdens. Without actual Regis graduate data, the safest assumption is that outcomes will track close to the state median—solid enough for graduates with clear career plans, but not a standout value proposition.
Where Regis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all political science and government bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $43,980 | $37,759* | — | $24,625* | — | |
| $10,017 | $40,272* | $58,929 | $21,066* | 0.52 | |
| $16,430 | $39,954* | $60,121 | $19,500* | 0.49 | |
| $10,780 | $39,920* | $44,120 | $23,500* | 0.59 | |
| $59,340 | $38,059* | $57,491 | $22,000* | 0.58 | |
| $12,010 | $37,458* | $45,185 | $20,250* | 0.54 | |
| 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 Regis University, approximately 26% 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 8 similar programs in CO. Actual outcomes may vary.