Political Science and Government at University of Nebraska at Kearney

In Nebraska, political science programs show a tight earnings band, with UNK's estimated $35,311 first-year outcome falling squarely in line with what similar programs produce statewide. That figure matches the state median and sits just $700 below the national benchmark of $35,627—suggesting this program tracks with typical outcomes for the major, though it doesn't appear to command a premium over peer institutions. Even flagship UNL graduates earn only about $1,000 more in their first year.

The estimated $22,954 in debt creates a manageable 0.65 debt-to-earnings ratio, below both state and national debt medians for political science programs. For a degree that rarely leads directly to high-paying careers without graduate school or competitive government positions, this debt load is reasonable. However, parents should recognize that political science graduates often need additional credentials—law school, public administration degrees, or specialized certifications—to reach higher earning potential, which means this initial debt may be just the beginning of educational borrowing.

The practical consideration: if your child is considering law school, public policy work, or other advanced degrees, starting with lower undergraduate debt matters significantly. If they're planning to enter the workforce directly after graduation, understand that $35,000 salaries are typical for this field nationally, not a Nebraska-specific limitation. The program appears competitively priced for what political science degrees deliver, but the major itself—not the school—drives these modest early-career outcomes.