Political Science and Government at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University's political science graduates face a rough first year, earning just $30,502—about $6,400 below the Missouri median and ranking in the bottom quarter of in-state programs. That's a concerning start for a private university charging enough to leave students with $25,000 in debt. The first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.82 means nearly a full year's salary goes toward paying off loans, a financial strain that Truman State and University of Missouri graduates (with higher starting salaries) avoid.

The saving grace here is earnings growth. By year four, typical graduates reach $49,397, finally surpassing state competitors and showing 62% growth. This trajectory suggests the degree eventually pays off for those who stick it out, though that first year remains financially tight. However, this analysis comes with a major caveat: the sample size is under 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

For Missouri families, this means paying private tuition for outcomes that trail public alternatives for several years. Unless your child has specific reasons to attend Saint Louis University—like substantial financial aid or connections to the Jesuit network—the state's flagship programs offer better immediate returns with similar or lower debt loads.