Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release).
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
Earnings Distribution
How Seton Hall University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seton Hall University | $28,138 | $53,234 | +89% |
| The College of New Jersey | $40,229 | $57,902 | +44% |
| Montclair State University | $26,704 | $54,399 | +104% |
| Rutgers University-Camden | $39,723 | $53,569 | +35% |
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $39,723 | $53,569 | +35% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (22 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $51,370 | $28,138 | $53,234 | $25,000 | 0.89 | |
| $59,710 | $63,317 | — | — | — | |
| $18,685 | $40,229 | $57,902 | $25,625 | 0.64 | |
| $17,079 | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 | |
| $17,239 | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 | |
| $16,586 | $39,723 | $53,569 | $24,188 | 0.61 | |
| 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
Explore Related Programs
Political Science and Government in New Jersey
- Princeton University$63,317
- The College of New Jersey$40,229
- Rutgers University-Camden$39,723
- Rutgers University-New Brunswick$39,723
- Rutgers University-Newark$39,723
Explore further
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.