Political Science and Government at Syracuse University

Syracuse's Political Science program lands graduates earning $43,232 in their first year—substantially above both the national median ($35,627) and New York state median ($35,158). That's a solid start, but here's the catch: while Syracuse ranks in the 85th percentile nationally, it falls to just the 60th percentile among New York programs, where competition from Cornell, Columbia, and elite liberal arts colleges pushes the bar higher. Students graduate with $26,799 in debt, which is actually quite manageable for a private university at this price point—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 means graduates earn more than their total debt in their first year alone.

The real story unfolds over time. Four years out, earnings jump 38% to $59,450, putting Syracuse graduates within striking distance of programs that start higher but level off. This isn't the immediate prestige premium of a Columbia degree (starting at $61,077), but the trajectory suggests Syracuse's network and reputation open doors once graduates establish themselves professionally.

For families paying private tuition, the math works if your child plans to leverage Syracuse's strong alumni network in government, nonprofit work, or graduate school preparation. The combination of above-average starting salaries, reasonable debt, and strong earnings growth makes this a viable path—just understand that within New York's competitive landscape, Syracuse is the solid mid-tier option, not the top dog.