Political Science and Government at Western New England University

Similar programs across Massachusetts suggest first-year earnings around $43,000 for political science bachelor's degree holders—right at the state median but well above the national figure of $36,000. The estimated $25,000 in debt produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary.

However, the gap between Western New England and the top-tier programs in Massachusetts is substantial. Elite schools like Tufts and Harvard place their political science graduates into positions earning $60,000-$68,000, nearly 60% more than what peer programs suggest for Western New England students. This isn't surprising given the difference in admissions selectivity and alumni networks, but it highlights how much outcomes can vary within the same field and state.

The debt load appears reasonable if those estimated earnings hold true, but political science graduates often need graduate degrees to advance in their careers, which means additional borrowing down the line. For families comfortable with Western New England's $25,000 estimated debt as a starting point rather than a final investment, and with realistic expectations about entry-level public sector or nonprofit salaries, the numbers work. But if you're expecting this degree alone to open doors to high-paying positions, comparable Massachusetts programs suggest tempering those expectations.