Political Science and Government at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

UW-Milwaukee's political science program delivers something unusual for the major: graduates who earn significantly more than their peers nationally while taking on typical debt levels. First-year earnings of $40,487 place these graduates in the 76th percentile nationally—well above the $35,627 median for political science majors. The debt load of $24,000 translates to a manageable 0.59 ratio against first-year earnings, meaning graduates can realistically tackle their loans even in entry-level positions.

Within Wisconsin, the program holds its own against flagship Madison and ranks competitively among UW System schools, landing in the 60th percentile statewide. More importantly, earnings climb 25% by year four to reach $50,414—a trajectory that suggests graduates are securing positions with genuine advancement potential rather than dead-end work. For a political science degree at an accessible institution with an 88% acceptance rate, this represents solid value.

The combination of below-national-median debt and above-national-median earnings creates breathing room that many liberal arts graduates don't get. If your child is genuinely interested in political science and wants to stay in Wisconsin, this program offers a credible path forward without the financial strain that often accompanies humanities degrees. Just recognize that even with these relatively strong numbers, $40,000 starting salaries require budgeting discipline in those first years out of school.