Political Science and Government at University of Indianapolis

The University of Indianapolis's political science program carries an important caveat: with fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, these numbers could shift significantly year to year. That said, the available data suggests graduates face a challenging financial start, earning $32,406 their first year—about $3,500 below the state median and $3,200 below the national average. Within Indiana, this places the program at the 40th percentile, meaning six out of ten similar programs produce higher-earning graduates. The gap with Indiana's top programs is substantial: Notre Dame grads earn 71% more, while even Ball State and Purdue graduates start around $39,000-$40,000.

The debt picture offers a silver lining. At $25,963, graduates carry slightly less debt than typical Indiana political science majors, landing in the 25th percentile nationally—meaning three-quarters of programs saddle students with more debt. The 0.80 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, though monthly payments will still consume a noticeable portion of take-home pay on a $32,000 salary.

For an anxious parent, the question is whether this outcome justifies the cost when larger public universities in Indiana—Purdue, Ball State, or IU Indianapolis—appear to deliver stronger earning potential at comparable or lower debt levels. Unless your child has compelling reasons to attend UIndy specifically (scholarship money, particular faculty connections, or fit), the broader Indiana market suggests better returns elsewhere.