International Relations and National Security Studies at York College of Pennsylvania

Based on comparable International Relations programs in Pennsylvania, York College graduates might expect to earn around $49,000 in their first year—a figure that would place them well above the national median of $37,000 for this degree. The estimated debt load of $20,000 creates a manageable 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates could potentially pay off loans with less than half a year's salary. That's a reasonable financial foundation for a field that often requires graduate school or security clearances to advance.

The challenge is that these estimates mask considerable variation. Pennsylvania's top International Relations programs produce graduates earning between $36,000 and $77,000, suggesting that institution and student network matter enormously in this field. York's 94% admission rate and modest SAT scores indicate it's more accessible than elite competitors like Bucknell or Penn, which could translate to different career trajectories and employer connections—factors the aggregate data can't capture.

For families considering this path, the estimated numbers suggest affordability rather than outsized opportunity. If your child is genuinely committed to international affairs work and understands they may need graduate credentials to advance, York appears financially reasonable. But if they're uncertain about the field or drawn to the idea more than the reality of entry-level government or nonprofit salaries, the lack of program-specific outcomes should prompt serious conversations about backup plans.