Political Science and Government at University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne

Indiana political science programs typically produce first-year earnings around $35,000, and comparable programs at private schools in the state suggest graduates carry roughly $27,000 in debt—figures that put this University of Saint Francis program squarely in the middle of what's typical both statewide and nationally. The 0.77 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within manageable territory, though it's worth noting that Indiana's flagship universities show stronger outcomes: Notre Dame graduates earn $55,000 out of the gate, while even regional public options like Ball State and Purdue post earnings north of $39,000.

The practical challenge here is that $35,000 doesn't stretch far in most career paths traditionally associated with political science—government work, nonprofits, campaign roles—and many graduates pursue graduate degrees that add more debt. The school's open admission policy and modest test scores (1040 SAT average) suggest you're looking at a different peer group than the state's more selective programs, which may affect both networking opportunities and employer perceptions.

If your child is genuinely passionate about political science and needs the smaller campus environment that Saint Francis provides, the debt load isn't catastrophic. But given the modest earning potential and the stronger outcomes at Indiana's public universities, you should carefully weigh whether this particular combination of program and institution justifies the private school price tag—especially when peers across the state show a $5,000-$20,000 earnings advantage within the first year.