Public Administration at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona's Public Administration program starts graduates at just $39,000—well below both the state median ($50,500) and national average ($45,300)—but here's the critical detail: earnings jump 32% to $51,600 by year four. That trajectory matters, though it still leaves graduates trailing the state's top performer (University of Phoenix grads earn $62,000). Among Arizona's three schools offering this program, U of A ranks at the bottom quartile for starting salaries.

The $21,000 debt load works in graduates' favor, coming in significantly below both state and national medians. That relatively modest borrowing keeps the debt manageable even during those lean first years, with graduates owing about half their starting salary. The concerning piece is that even after four years of career growth, earnings remain below where Arizona public administration grads typically start, suggesting this program may not provide the same career launching pad as competitors.

For parents, this translates to a challenging early period—your child will likely struggle financially right out of college—followed by solid growth that still doesn't fully catch up. If your student has other options for public administration in Arizona, or can attend a program with stronger first-year placement, that would eliminate years of financial strain. The debt is reasonable enough to manage, but the opportunity cost of lower earnings compounds over time.