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International Relations at Stanford University

Stanford, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $76,166/yr (93% vs median)

AI Risk High (47% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)

ROI 3.8x earnings multiple

Ranked #2 of 106 International Relations programs Top 5%

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	$1,017K	$960K	$824K
Earnings Multiple	4.1x	3.8x	3.3x
Probability of Field Employment	53%	48%	37%
DegreeOutlook Score	64	63	60

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)

$249,936

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$48,544

81% less than sticker · See by income

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$128,687

69% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Stanford University International Relations graduates command $76,166/yr out of the gate, well above the $39,530 national median. That 93% premium suggests the program's reputation carries real labor-market weight.

At 3.8x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 19% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some International Relations career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

Stanford University ranks #2 among 106 International Relations programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The $76,166-to-$128,687 earnings arc over five years reflects a 69% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Stanford University

Only 4% of applicants gain admission to Stanford University, reflecting elite selectivity, serving 7,841 students in Stanford, CA. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $48,544 — 81% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Stanford University →

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 63/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Relations at Stanford University?

At 63/100, Stanford 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 Stanford 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 Stanford University one of the best schools for International Relations?

Among 106 International Relations programs, Stanford University's #2 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.

What do students actually pay for International Relations at Stanford University?

The 81% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $249,936. At a net cost of $48,544, the earnings multiple improves substantially.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →