Political Science and Government at University of Massachusetts-Lowell

UMass Lowell's political science graduates earn $35,330 in their first year—essentially matching the national median but falling significantly short within Massachusetts. Among the state's 42 political science programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile, with graduates earning roughly $8,000 less than the typical Massachusetts poli sci graduate. That gap matters in a state where elite programs like Tufts and Harvard post starting salaries above $60,000, and even mid-tier options consistently clear $43,000.

The debt picture offers some consolation. At $19,900, graduates borrow about $4,000 less than typical Massachusetts students in this field, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56. With an 85% admission rate and reasonable SAT requirements, UMass Lowell provides accessible entry to higher education without crushing debt loads. For students planning graduate school or public service careers where starting salary matters less than credential and debt burden, this combination works.

However, parents should understand this is a below-average outcome for Massachusetts. If your child can gain admission to other state programs or nearby competitors, those extra earnings—compounding over a career—likely justify moderately higher debt. UMass Lowell makes sense primarily for students who need the accessibility or plan to leverage the degree as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential.