Analysis
University of Louisville's political science graduates start behind the curve but see impressive momentum, with earnings jumping 46% to reach $46,403 by year four. That early $31,777 figure sits below the national median, but the trajectory matters here—these graduates are experiencing faster-than-typical salary growth in their first years out.
Within Kentucky, this program performs solidly, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide and outpacing larger programs at Western Kentucky and Bellarmine. However, the $19,500 in median debt—while lower than the national benchmark—still translates to a 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio in that challenging first year. For context, graduates from Eastern Kentucky and UK earn $4,000-6,000 more right out of the gate with similar debt loads.
The value proposition hinges on whether your child can weather that initial period of modest earnings. Political science graduates often need time to find their footing, whether moving into public sector roles, nonprofit work, or pivoting to adjacent fields like business or law. The strong earnings growth suggests Louisville grads are making those transitions successfully, but families should plan for financial support during those first couple years post-graduation.
Where University of Louisville Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all political science and government bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Louisville graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Louisville | $31,777 | $46,403 | +46% |
| University of Kentucky | $34,745 | $48,326 | +39% |
| Eastern Kentucky University | $35,899 | $47,215 | +32% |
| Western Kentucky University | $23,294 | $43,807 | +88% |
| Bellarmine University | $25,424 | $37,194 | +46% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Political Science and Government bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of LouisvilleLouisville | $12,828 | $31,777 | $46,403 | $19,500 | 0.61 |
 Eastern Kentucky UniversityRichmond | $10,130 | $35,899 | $47,215 | $21,498 | 0.60 |
 University of KentuckyLexington | $13,212 | $34,745 | $48,326 | $21,667 | 0.62 |
 Bellarmine UniversityLouisville | $47,180 | $25,424 | $37,194 | $25,226 | 0.99 |
 Western Kentucky UniversityBowling Green | $11,436 | $23,294 | $43,807 | $20,500 | 0.88 |
| National Median | — | $35,627 | — | $23,500 | 0.66 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with political science and government graduates
Political Scientists
Economists
Environmental Economists
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Development Managers
Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Louisville, approximately 29% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 76 graduates with reported earnings and 100 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.