Political Science and Government at Seton Hall University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
The 89% earnings jump between years one and four tells an important story about Seton Hall's Political Science program—graduates start significantly behind their peers but catch up quickly. That first-year figure of $28,138 ranks in just the 12th percentile nationally and 25th percentile among New Jersey programs, well below the state median of $35,610. But by year four, earnings reach $53,234, surpassing not just state averages but even putting graduates within striking distance of some Rutgers campuses that start stronger.
The $25,000 debt load sits right at the median for New Jersey political science programs, making the real question whether that delayed launch matters to your family's finances. If your student can weather those lean early years—perhaps through living at home or having family support—the trajectory looks promising. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89 is manageable, especially given where graduates land by year four.
This pattern suggests Seton Hall students may be pursuing graduate degrees, internships, or competitive entry-level positions that pay off later. For families who can financially support that runway period, the program delivers solid mid-term outcomes. But if your student needs to be financially independent immediately after graduation, those first few years could be a genuine struggle given starting salaries that trail most New Jersey competitors by $7,000-10,000.
Where Seton Hall University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all political science and government bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Seton Hall University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Seton Hall University graduates earn $28k, placing them in the 12th percentile of all political science and government bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (22 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seton Hall University | $28,138 | $53,234 | $25,000 | 0.89 |
| Princeton University | $63,317 | — | — | — |
| The College of New Jersey | $40,229 | $57,902 | $25,625 | 0.64 |
| Rutgers University-Camden | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 |
| Rutgers University-Newark | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 |
| National Median | $35,627 | — | $23,500 | 0.66 |
Other Political Science and Government Programs in New Jersey
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Princeton University Princeton | $59,710 | $63,317 | — |
| The College of New Jersey Ewing | $18,685 | $40,229 | $25,625 |
| Rutgers University-Camden Camden | $17,079 | $39,723 | $24,188 |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick New Brunswick | $17,239 | $39,723 | $24,188 |
| Rutgers University-Newark Newark | $16,586 | $39,723 | $24,188 |
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 Seton Hall 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.
Sample Size: Based on 48 graduates with reported earnings and 59 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.