Political Science and Government at Temple University

Temple's Political Science program shows something unexpected: graduates who start slowly but accelerate significantly. First-year earnings of $36,011 trail the Pennsylvania median by about $1,500, placing this program in just the 40th percentile statewide. But four years out, earnings jump to nearly $50,000—a 39% increase that's notably stronger than typical political science trajectories. With debt of $25,815 (slightly below both state and national averages), graduates face manageable payments even during that slower first year.

The gap between Temple and elite Pennsylvania programs is substantial—Penn and Lehigh grads earn 40-80% more right out of the gate. But those schools serve different student populations, and Temple's 83% admission rate combined with 30% Pell enrollment suggests its value lies in accessibility rather than exclusivity. For families without the resources or credentials for Pennsylvania's top-tier private schools, this program delivers respectable outcomes without crushing debt.

The key question is what drives that year-4 earnings jump. Political science grads often need time to land government positions, advance in nonprofits, or leverage their degrees in adjacent fields. If your child is patient and willing to hustle through an entry-level year or two, this program works financially. If they need immediate earning power to manage expenses, the $36,000 starting point could be tight, even with moderate debt.