Program Analysis
American University's International Relations graduates start at $47,551/yr — above the $39,530 national average, though not by a wide margin.
An earnings multiple of 2.8x means the program roughly breaks even in financial terms over ten years. Non-financial factors need to justify the investment.
AI risk is moderate — 47% task exposure — and the 12% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $23,250 in median debt clears quickly against $47,551 in annual earnings.
Ranked #51 out of 106 programs, American University's International Relations offering sits in the upper half but doesn't break into the top tier.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $47,551 to $71,028 shows 49% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.