Political Science and Government at University of California-Irvine

UC Irvine's political science program starts graduates at below-average salaries but demonstrates impressive earning potential over time. While first-year earnings of $32,000 trail both national and California medians by several thousand dollars, graduates see remarkable 73% income growth by year four, reaching $55,323—well above typical political science salaries nationwide.

The debt picture offers a significant advantage that helps offset the modest starting salaries. At $16,293, student debt loads are extraordinarily low, sitting in the 95th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with more debt). This manageable debt burden, combined with strong earnings growth, creates a debt-to-income ratio of just 0.51—meaning graduates owe roughly half their first year's salary, which is quite reasonable for any bachelor's degree.

Among California's 72 political science programs, this ranks solidly in the middle for earnings while maintaining one of the lowest debt burdens in the state. While it can't compete with Stanford or Berkeley's starting salaries, the combination of UC's prestigious brand, low debt, and strong earnings trajectory makes this a sound investment. For families concerned about student debt loads, UC Irvine delivers the UC system's academic reputation without the financial stress that often accompanies political science degrees elsewhere.