Political Science and Government at University of Vermont

UVM's Political Science program starts graduates at just $31,594—nearly $8,000 below Vermont's median for the major and among the bottom quarter nationally. That's a tough reality for $23,000 in debt, especially considering Norwich University produces graduates earning 39% more right out of the gate while charging similar tuition. The good news? Earnings nearly double by year four to $51,935, showing strong mid-term growth that eventually surpasses both state and national medians.

The question is whether those difficult first few years are manageable. At 73 cents of debt for every dollar of first-year earnings, recent graduates face tighter finances than typical for the field. Vermont's high cost of living amplifies this challenge—$31,594 doesn't stretch far in Burlington. Parents should think carefully about whether supplemental support during those early career years is feasible, or if their student would be better served by a program with stronger initial placement.

If your child is committed to political science and set on UVM, the trajectory improves substantially. But families sensitive to immediate post-graduation earnings might look at Norwich or consider whether a different major at UVM would better leverage the institution's $50,000+ sticker price.