Political Science and Government at University of Miami

University of Miami political science graduates face a tough first year, earning just $33,867—below both the state median ($34,621) and national average. This ranks them in the 40th percentile among Florida programs, trailing schools like University of Tampa ($40,505) and even mid-tier public universities. For a highly selective private university charging premium tuition, these initial outcomes lag expectations considerably.

The trajectory improves dramatically, with earnings jumping 85% to $62,798 by year four—a growth rate that suggests graduates successfully leverage Miami's alumni network and urban location for career advancement. However, that strong mid-career rebound doesn't erase the financial pressure of year one. The manageable $17,500 debt load (well below the $23,500 national median) provides crucial breathing room during those lean early years, with the debt representing just 52% of first-year earnings.

Here's the bottom line: if your child can weather a financially tight start—perhaps with parental support or living at home initially—Miami's political science program offers solid mid-term prospects. But if they need immediate earning power after graduation, the public universities on this list deliver better day-one value without the slow ramp-up period. The degree works, but it requires patience and financial cushion to reach its potential.