Political Science and Government at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville's political science program presents a pronounced income trajectory that requires patience from families. Starting salaries of $31,786 trail both the Illinois median and national benchmarks by roughly $3,000-4,000, placing graduates near the bottom quarter nationally. However, within four years, median earnings jump 74% to $55,237—substantially outpacing the state's typical outcome and rivaling elite programs like Northwestern and University of Chicago.

The $24,250 in debt is manageable and close to state norms, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76 that improves dramatically as careers progress. By year four, the financial picture looks compelling for a program at a highly accessible institution (97% admission rate). The challenge is weathering that initial period: first-year graduates earn less than many entry-level positions that don't require degrees.

One critical caveat: these figures come from a small sample of fewer than 30 graduates, which means a few high earners could skew the results upward. Still, if the pattern holds, SIUE political science graduates who can navigate lean early years—perhaps through additional internships or graduate school—appear positioned for solid mid-career outcomes. For families comfortable with delayed financial returns, this could represent reasonable value, particularly at in-state tuition rates.