Program Analysis
At $40,434/yr, Public Policy Analysis graduates from Southern Methodist University land near the $46,424 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
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 — 49% task exposure — and the 15% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The median debt load of $19,500 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.
At #28 out of 40 programs, Southern Methodist University's financial outcomes for Public Policy Analysis trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $40,434 to $77,862 over five years (93% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.