Political Science and Government at University of South Carolina-Upstate

USC-Upstate's Political Science program shows graduates earning slightly above both national and state medians, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly year to year. What's notable is the trajectory: graduates see earnings climb from $35,798 to $44,353 within four years—a 24% increase that suggests career progression rather than stagnation. Among South Carolina's 26 political science programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, placing it solidly mid-pack.

The $30,000 debt load is concerning at first glance—it's higher than both the state and national medians. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.84 remains manageable, meaning graduates owe less than one year's salary. The real question is whether your student is genuinely committed to careers in government, nonprofits, or graduate school, where political science degrees typically lead. This isn't a high-earning field by nature.

The small sample makes it difficult to rely on these numbers as predictive, but the fundamentals suggest a reasonable outcome for students who know what they're getting into. If your child is exploring political science out of general interest rather than specific career goals, consider programs with stronger placement track records or lower debt burdens. For students serious about public service or law school, the trajectory here is encouraging enough.