International Relationsat Hamilton College
Graduates earn $45,332/yr in their first year — about 15.0% above the national International Relations average. Base-case 10-year earnings $506K; scenarios range from $474K to $507K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Hamilton College
Hamilton's rigorous liberal arts education, particularly in International Relations, cultivates exceptional critical thinking, research, and communication skills. These are highly sought after by employers ranging from federal agencies like the State Department or Department of Defense, to international NGOs, think tanks, and global consulting firms. The program's reputation and strong alumni network often open doors to these competitive sectors, leading to robust career outcomes, even for roles not directly labeled "IR." You're typically prepared for roles involving policy analysis, strategic communications, or project management in a global context. Given the high AI risk in research and analysis, focusing on developing complementary technical skills or a specific regional/thematic specialization will be crucial for your long-term career trajectory.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Hamilton College's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering International Relations
How Hamilton College stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Hamilton College
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Hamilton College, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in International Relations offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare International Relations trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about International Relations at Hamilton College
How does Hamilton College's International Relations program score?
This program scores 39/100 — on the lower end for International Relations. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How vulnerable is International Relations to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' International Relations careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 47% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
How affordable is International Relations at Hamilton College after financial aid?
Sticker price is $262,960, but the average net cost is $113,256 — a 57% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.