International Relations at Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
53
Optimistic
52
Base Case
51
Pessimistic
Earnings
$38,810/yr (-2% vs median)
AI Risk
High (47% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)
ROI
10.9x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to International Relations graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $723K | $698K | $622K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 11.3x | 10.9x | 9.7x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.2x | 4.0x | 3.6x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 53% | 48% | 37% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 53 | 52 | 51 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$63,952
Out-of-state: $173,488 (4.0x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,750
7.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$75,882
96% growth from Year 1
About Michigan State University
With 84% of applicants admitted, Michigan State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 40,243 in East Lansing, MI.
See all programs and financial aid at Michigan State University →Top Career Paths
Political scientists
$139,380/yr
Managers, all other
$136,550/yr
Political science teachers, postsecondary
$94,680/yr
Compare & Explore
International Relations at Other Schools
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Explore the Trade Alternative
Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 52/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Relations at Michigan State University?
At 52/100, Michigan State University's International Relations program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study International Relations at Michigan State University?
The 47% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Michigan State University one of the best schools for International Relations?
Among 106 International Relations programs, Michigan State University's #20 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →