Political Science and Government at Williams College

Williams College produces political science graduates who substantially outpace typical outcomes for this major. With first-year earnings of $56,817, graduates earn 32% more than the Massachusetts median and 59% more than the national median for political science degrees. While Williams ranks behind Harvard and Tufts among Massachusetts schools, it sits firmly in the 95th percentile nationally—meaningful given that over 1,100 colleges offer this program.

The financial picture is remarkably clean. At just $10,750 in median debt, graduates carry less than half the typical burden for political science majors, whether compared to Massachusetts ($24,865) or national figures ($23,500). This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.19, essentially manageable within months rather than years. The 40% earnings growth from year one to year four—reaching nearly $80,000—suggests graduates are landing roles with real advancement potential, not just entry-level positions that plateau quickly.

For families who can manage Williams' tuition or qualify for its need-based aid, this represents one of the stronger political science investments available. The combination of minimal debt and above-market starting salaries creates unusual financial flexibility for a liberal arts degree. Whether graduates pursue law school, consulting, government work, or nonprofit careers, they're doing so without the debt burden that typically constrains political science majors' early-career choices.