International Relations and National Security Studies at University of San Francisco

University of San Francisco graduates in this program start modestly at $36,669 but see their earnings jump 43% to over $52,000 within four years—a growth trajectory that suggests they're gaining valuable skills or credentials that the job market increasingly rewards. While that starting salary lands near the national median for international relations programs, the four-year mark tells a more promising story. The debt load of $24,508 is actually quite manageable here, giving graduates a 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio that's better than most programs nationally.

The state context matters: among California's 32 international relations programs, USF ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings despite being far more accessible than elite competitors like Stanford ($76K) or USC ($52K). You're getting comparable early-career outcomes to University of San Diego graduates while paying significantly less in debt than many CA peers. The moderate sample size means some year-to-year volatility is possible, but the earnings growth pattern suggests graduates are finding their footing professionally after that first year.

For parents weighing a $24,500 investment against a starting salary of $37K, the key question is whether your student will stick it out through those early career years when the payoff accelerates. If they're committed to building expertise in international affairs—whether in government, NGOs, or private sector roles—this program's trajectory makes it a reasonable bet.