International Relations and National Security Studies at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus

UNH's International Relations program tells an encouraging story, though it requires patience. Graduates start at $34,000—below the national median for this field—but within four years their earnings jump 83% to over $62,000. That's well above the typical trajectory for international relations majors nationally, where many struggle to find high-paying early career paths. The relatively low debt burden of $27,000 makes that slower start more manageable than it would be at peer programs.

In New Hampshire's limited market for this degree, UNH sits in the middle of the pack (60th percentile), but the state context is less relevant here since international relations careers typically draw graduates to DC, New York, or other major metros. More telling is that modest first-year number: it suggests many graduates spend time in internships, entry-level government positions, or nonprofit work before moving into better-paying roles. The strong four-year earnings indicate this apprenticeship model works for many students, but families should ensure their child can weather that initial period financially.

The fundamental question is whether your student can afford to earn below-market wages early in their career. If they're willing to hustle through that phase—and the moderate sample size suggests this pattern is reliable—the investment pays off reasonably well by year four.