Political Science and Government at The University of Texas at San Antonio

UTSA's political science program starts rough but finishes surprisingly strong. That $30,235 first-year salary—landing in just the 20th percentile nationally—quickly becomes $46,760 by year four, a 55% jump that outpaces most political science programs. The $20,000 debt load is manageable and below both state and national medians, giving graduates breathing room during those lean early years.

The state context reveals something important: while UTSA sits at the 40th percentile among Texas political science programs, it's significantly more affordable than top-tier options like Rice ($54,728) or UT Austin ($43,281). You're not getting UT Austin outcomes, but you're also not paying UT Austin debt levels. For families focused on ROI and considering that UTSA serves 42% Pell-eligible students, this trajectory—struggle initially, then climb steadily—may actually reflect career reality better than programs promising immediate high salaries.

The real question is whether your family can weather that first year or two of entry-level earnings. If your child can live at home, has family support, or can line up better initial opportunities, the four-year outlook becomes considerably more appealing. This isn't a program for students needing immediate financial independence, but the growth trajectory suggests UTSA grads are finding their footing in careers that value political science skills once they gain experience.