International Relations and National Security Studies at University of Richmond

Richmond's International Relations program sits in a competitive cluster where similar Virginia programs produce first-year earnings around $45,000—just above the national median of $37,000 for this field but unremarkable within the state. The estimated debt load of $21,500 translates to a manageable 0.48 ratio, suggesting graduates could reasonably handle monthly payments even in the lower-paid nonprofit or government sectors where many IR majors land early in their careers.

What complicates the picture is Richmond's premium positioning. With a 23% acceptance rate and average SAT of 1474, this is a highly selective private school competing directly with William & Mary and UVA—public institutions whose IR programs show slightly higher first-year earnings while likely carrying less debt for in-state students. The estimated figures here are based on peer programs statewide, making it impossible to know if Richmond's particular advantages (small classes, alumni networks, DC proximity) translate into better outcomes than the Virginia average suggests.

The debt-to-earnings math works, but parents should verify whether Richmond offers enough financial aid to offset its private school price tag. If your student is paying significantly more than $21,500 in loans—or if family contributions stretch your finances thin—similar outcomes may be available at lower cost elsewhere in Virginia's strong public system.