Political Science and Government at University of Southern California

USC's political science graduates start modestly at $38,000 but see their earnings jump 55% to nearly $59,000 by year four—a trajectory that outpaces typical patterns for this major. While first-year earnings land just above the California median, that four-year mark puts graduates substantially ahead of the pack. Among California's 72 political science programs, USC ranks in the 60th percentile, trailing elite options like Stanford and Berkeley but demonstrating solid mid-career momentum that many peer institutions don't match.

The $12,869 median debt tells an encouraging story for a selective private university. That's 26% below California's median for political science programs and dramatically lower than the national benchmark of $23,500. The 0.34 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates typically owe about four months of their first-year salary—manageable even during the leaner early years. This matters because political science graduates often pursue positions in government, nonprofits, or graduate school, where starting salaries lag but debt burdens still come due.

The value proposition here hinges on that earnings growth curve. Parents should recognize that year one will likely feel financially tight, but USC's network and credential appear to open doors that accelerate earning potential. For families who can manage the upfront costs without excessive borrowing, the program delivers competitive outcomes without the crushing debt loads common at many private universities.