International Relations and National Security Studies at University of South Carolina-Columbia

USC's International Relations program starts slow but builds momentum—graduates earn just $33,612 in their first year, trailing both the national median ($37,198) and the state median ($38,520) by several thousand dollars. That lag matters because it's when you're managing that initial $20,500 in debt. However, by year four, earnings jump to $49,363, a 47% increase that pushes past national benchmarks and signals graduates are finding their footing in what tends to be a field with delayed payoffs.

The debt load is reasonable and manageable—lower than the national median for this program and representing about seven months of first-year earnings. That's a workable ratio, even if the initial salary feels tight. Within South Carolina, this program sits in the middle of the pack (40th percentile), behind options like Wofford College but still respectable for a flagship university that admits most applicants.

The investment makes sense if your child understands the timeline: they'll likely need entry-level positions in government, nonprofits, or related sectors before moving into better-compensated roles. The strong year-four earnings suggest that patience pays off, but students who need immediate high income to manage expenses should think carefully. For those willing to play the long game in national security or foreign policy work, the combination of modest debt and solid mid-career trajectory offers a viable path forward.