Political Science and Government at University of Iowa

University of Iowa's political science graduates outpace both national and state averages right from the start, with first-year earnings of $39,133 placing them in the 69th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Iowa. What makes this particularly compelling is the trajectory: earnings jump 40% to nearly $55,000 by year four, suggesting graduates are moving into more substantial roles rather than stalling in entry-level positions. Among Iowa's 20 programs, only UNI produces slightly higher initial earnings, and Iowa beats both Grinnell and Iowa State—schools often considered peers or alternatives.

The debt picture reinforces the value proposition. At $24,250, graduates carry slightly more than the state and national medians, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62, they're positioned to manage repayment comfortably. That ratio improves dramatically as earnings grow, making this program financially sustainable even for students without family support. The combination of strong initial placement and meaningful earnings growth points to graduates landing with employers who value Iowa's brand and connections.

For parents worried about a liberal arts degree's ROI, Iowa's political science program delivers tangible results. The earnings aren't spectacular immediately, but the growth trajectory and manageable debt create a foundation for financial stability—better than most political science programs can claim.