International Relations and National Security Studies at University of Mount Saint Vincent

International Relations programs in New York show stark divides, with graduates at Fordham and Hamilton earning $45,000-plus while others hover near the state median of $36,754. Based on comparable programs across New York, Mount Saint Vincent's estimated outcomes sit at that median—$36,754 in first-year earnings with roughly $23,800 in debt. That 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory, meaning debt payments won't consume an outsized portion of early paychecks, but the earnings themselves lag considerably behind the state's top programs.

The challenge here isn't the debt burden—it's what those estimated first-year earnings can actually support in the Bronx. At $36,754, graduates are looking at roughly $3,000 monthly before taxes, which barely covers New York City's cost of living. International Relations degrees typically lead to competitive fields like government, nonprofits, or policy work where unpaid internships and entry-level positions are common. Similar programs suggest this financial squeeze continues: the estimated earnings already reflect what peer programs produce, and there's limited room for rapid salary growth without graduate credentials.

For families investing in this degree, the estimated numbers point to a need for supplemental support during those early career years. Unless your child has concrete pathways to higher-paying opportunities—competitive internships, language skills, security clearances, or clear graduate school plans—comparable programs suggest they'll face real financial constraints in an expensive city right when they're trying to launch their careers.