Political Science and Government at West Virginia University Institute of Technology

West Virginia University Institute of Technology's political science program starts rough but shows something unusual: earnings nearly double by year four, jumping from about $30,000 to over $51,000. That 69% growth rate suggests graduates find their footing after initially struggling in West Virginia's challenging job market, where they're earning below both the state median ($32,639) and significantly below the national average for poly sci majors ($35,627).

The $23,250 in debt is reasonable—right at West Virginia's median and actually slightly below the national benchmark. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.77 based on that first year, the financial picture initially looks tight, but by year four, these graduates are earning roughly double what they owe. Among West Virginia's 13 political science programs, this one ranks solidly middle-of-the-pack at the 40th percentile, though it notably trails the top performers like American Public University System's online program.

The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) means these numbers should hold up reasonably well, but here's the reality: your child will likely need to weather a difficult first year or two in the workforce. The strong earnings growth suggests this program connects students to career paths that develop over time—possibly in government or public administration roles where experience matters. If they can manage financially through that initial period and stay in careers that allow for advancement, the investment pencils out.