Political Science and Government at Vassar College

Vassar's political science graduates earn $48,679 in their first year—37% above the national median and 38% above what typical New York political science grads make. Among New York's 81 programs, Vassar ranks in the 80th percentile, trailing only the Ivy League schools and a handful of elite liberal arts colleges. By year four, earnings climb to $56,595, putting graduates within striking distance of Cornell and Hamilton outcomes.

The $17,500 median debt is refreshingly manageable, especially for a selective private college. That 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically pay off loans within a year or two of aggressive repayment, leaving them free to pursue graduate school, public service, or other lower-paying career paths without financial stress. This matters particularly for political science majors, who often need graduate degrees or start in modestly-paid positions before their careers take off.

For families weighing Vassar against larger state universities, the earnings premium is substantial and immediate. The typical New York political science grad earns $35,158—meaning Vassar graduates start with a $13,500 annual advantage. Over a decade, that gap compounds significantly. Given Vassar's 18% admission rate and strong academic profile, students admitted here are getting both prestige and solid financial returns.