International Relations and National Security Studies at University of Nevada-Reno

The $29,539 starting salary from UNR's International Relations program sits $7,600 below the national median—ranking in just the 17th percentile nationally. But here's the more encouraging story: graduates see 66% earnings growth by year four, reaching nearly $49,000. That trajectory suggests the degree opens doors that take time to develop, whether through security clearances, federal hiring processes, or advancement within government agencies and NGOs.

The debt picture is reasonable at $23,437, representing less than one year's starting salary. While you'd prefer higher initial earnings, the low admission rate of 85% and accessible price point make this a relatively low-risk path for students genuinely committed to international affairs careers. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides decent confidence in these numbers, though track record is still developing.

For Nevada families, this is the only in-state option for this specialization, which matters given potential tuition savings. The real question is whether your student has the patience and commitment for careers that reward persistence—think State Department, intelligence agencies, or international development work. If they're chasing immediate financial returns, this isn't the path. But for students passionate about national security or diplomacy, the strong earnings growth suggests UNR provides viable preparation at a manageable cost.