Political Science and Government at The University of Tennessee-Knoxville

UT Knoxville's political science graduates start at $29,728—roughly $5,000 below both national and state medians—but something notable happens by year four. Earnings jump 61% to nearly $48,000, vaulting past typical outcomes for this major. That's the kind of trajectory you see when graduates successfully pivot into higher-paying careers or when strong alumni networks open doors. At a flagship state university with a 21% Pell grant population and reasonable $20,500 median debt, this delayed launch might be a calculated tradeoff rather than a red flag.

The catch is that first year. Starting at the 18th percentile nationally means most graduates elsewhere are earning more right out of the gate. Even within Tennessee, this program sits at the 40th percentile—behind schools like UT Chattanooga and East Tennessee State. If your student needs immediate earning power to service debt or support themselves, that $29,728 creates a tight squeeze. The debt load itself is manageable at 69% of first-year earnings, but only if they can weather that lean initial period.

For families banking on a public university delivering immediate ROI, this program requires patience. But if your student has the financial cushion to absorb a slow start—or plans to pursue graduate school where UT's reputation matters—the strong four-year earnings suggest they'll eventually land in solid territory. Just don't expect political science alone to open those doors; the growth pattern implies graduates who successfully network or add complementary skills.