Political Science at Rhodes College
Memphis, TN · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
43
Optimistic
43
Base Case
40
Pessimistic
Earnings
$35,537/yr (-3% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI
3.3x earnings multiple
How AI Changes the Outlook
Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Political Science graduates.
| Optimistic No Disruption |
Base Case Gradual AI |
Pessimistic Aggressive AI |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Year Earnings | $744K | $715K | $630K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.4x | 3.3x | 2.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 50% | 44% | 33% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 43 | 43 | 40 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$219,568
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,500
8.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$77,515
118% growth from Year 1
About Rhodes College
Rhodes College's 50% acceptance rate reflects moderate selectivity, a compact campus enrolling 1,931 students in Memphis, TN. The average net cost of $100,240 over four years represents a 54% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Rhodes College →Top Career Paths
Political scientists
$139,380/yr
Managers, all other
$136,550/yr
Economics teachers, postsecondary
$119,980/yr
Compare & Explore
Political Science at Other Schools
Other Majors at Rhodes 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 43/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science at Rhodes College?
At 43/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Political Science programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Political Science at Rhodes College?
The 50% 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.
What do students actually pay for Political Science at Rhodes College?
The 54% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $219,568. At a net cost of $100,240, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →