International Relations and National Security Studies at Wofford College

Wofford's International Relations program graduates earn about $5,000 more than the typical IR graduate nationally and nearly $5,000 above South Carolina's median—solid performance for a liberal arts college in a field often associated with modest early salaries. At $43,428 in first-year earnings, graduates are outpacing 69% of similar programs nationwide. The debt load of $21,375 translates to a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe roughly half their first-year salary.

The caveat here matters: with fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, these numbers could shift considerably year to year. Still, the pattern suggests Wofford's small-college environment and career services may be helping IR majors find better-than-average entry positions. It's worth noting that Wofford graduates are earning substantially more than those from USC-Columbia's larger program ($33,612), though sample differences make direct comparisons tricky.

For parents weighing this program, the financials look reasonable if your child is genuinely committed to international relations work. The debt is modest enough that career changes or graduate school remain viable options, and first-year earnings suggest graduates aren't struggling to find relevant employment. Just understand you're looking at a snapshot from a small cohort, not a guaranteed outcome.