Political Science and Government at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

UNL's political science program stands out for its unusually strong earnings trajectory. While $36,364 in the first year lands graduates near typical starting points, the jump to $54,001 by year four represents 49% growth—substantially better than most liberal arts degrees. Among Nebraska's eight political science programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, edging out Creighton and significantly ahead of UNO despite similar debt loads.

The $21,500 in typical debt is manageable relative to first-year earnings (0.59 ratio), though not exceptional for the field. What matters more here is where graduates end up: that four-year mark suggests many find professional pathways—likely into government, nonprofits, or further education—that reward persistence. The real question is whether your student can navigate that first year on modest pay while building toward better opportunities.

For families comfortable with a moderate debt load and confident their student will stick with career-building beyond that initial job, this program delivers solid returns. The growth pattern suggests graduates who commit to the field do well. Just ensure your student understands they're signing up for a slower start with better medium-term prospects, not immediate high earnings.