Political Science and Government at Western Kentucky University

The small sample size here (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing dramatically with just a few data points, but the pattern they show is worth understanding. That first-year earnings figure of $23,294 ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally for political science programs—essentially rock bottom. Among Kentucky's 20 programs, it fares slightly better at the 25th percentile, but that's still trailing the state median by over $8,000. The good news is that earnings nearly double by year four to $43,807, suggesting graduates who stick with their career path see meaningful progress.

The $20,500 debt load is actually lower than both state and national benchmarks, which helps offset the weak starting salary. Your debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.88 means you'd owe less than one year's starting income—manageable if those four-year earnings materialize. However, the stark reality is that Eastern Kentucky University's political science graduates start $12,600 higher, and even UK graduates earn $11,450 more in their first year, suggesting this program may not be connecting students to the same entry-level opportunities.

With a 97% admission rate and below-average test scores, this is an accessible program, but parents should recognize they're likely paying for a credential that starts significantly behind peers from other Kentucky schools. If graduate school or a specific career requiring any bachelor's degree is the plan, the lower debt matters. If the goal is immediate career launch in politics or government, those first-year numbers suggest this program struggles to compete.