International Relations at Mount Holyoke College

South Hadley, MA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
27
Optimistic
26
Base Case
27
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,306/yr (-33% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)
ROI 3.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #97 of 106 International Relations programs

Program Analysis

When exploring International Relations and National Security Studies at Mount Holyoke, understand that this program, rooted in a strong liberal arts tradition, prioritizes critical thinking, deep analysis, and ethical engagement over vocational training for immediate high-paying roles. Graduates often pursue careers in non-profits, government agencies, international organizations, or further academic study, fields valued for impact and intellectual challenge more than initial compensation. Your early career might involve policy research, program coordination, or advocacy, often requiring a commitment to public service. To maximize your earning potential and mitigate future AI risk, actively seek internships in policy analysis or data-heavy roles, and consider pairing your studies with quantitative skills or a master's degree to open doors to more specialized and higher-paying positions.

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 $811K $777K $683K
Earnings Multiple 3.2x 3.0x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 48% 37%
DegreeOutlook Score 27 26 27

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$256,568
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$118,248
54% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,486
8.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$73,787
180% growth from Year 1

About Mount Holyoke College

Mount Holyoke College admits 38% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, with a smaller student body of 2,198 in South Hadley, MA. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $118,248 — 54% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Mount Holyoke College →

Top Career Paths

Political scientists $139,380/yr
Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Political science teachers, postsecondary $94,680/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

International Relations at Other Schools

Other Majors at Mount Holyoke College

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 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Relations at Mount Holyoke College?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring International Relations programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study International Relations at Mount Holyoke College?
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 Mount Holyoke College a good choice for International Relations despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Mount Holyoke College's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
What do students actually pay for International Relations at Mount Holyoke College?
The 54% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $256,568. At a net cost of $118,248, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →