Political Science and Government at University of Kansas

At first glance, KU's political science program appears to lag—graduates start at $33,700, below the national median and in the 38th percentile nationally. But zoom out to year four and a different picture emerges: earnings jump 67% to over $56,000, well above what most political science programs deliver. Among Kansas schools, this program ranks in the 60th percentile despite the modest starting point, suggesting graduates eventually find their footing in the state's job market better than peers at most competing programs.

The $22,249 in debt is actually lighter than both state and national medians, creating a manageable burden even during that lower-earning first year. The 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't ideal, but it's far from crisis territory for a liberal arts degree. What matters more is where graduates land by mid-career—and that trajectory looks promising, with earnings nearly doubling over four years. This pattern is common for political science majors who often start in entry-level positions or graduate school but progress into policy, law, or management roles.

For families comfortable with a longer runway to financial stability, this program works. The debt load won't be crushing, and if your child is serious about government, policy, or law school, KU provides a recognizable credential at a reasonable price. Just set realistic expectations about those first few years.