International Relationsat State University of New York at Oswego
Graduates earn $24,893/yr in their first year — about 37.0% below the national International Relations average. Base-case 10-year earnings $394K; scenarios range from $388K to $382K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at State University of New York at Oswego
The International Relations and National Security Studies program at SUNY Oswego presents a unique challenge, as its graduates often face a tougher path to higher earnings compared to the national average for this field. This isn't necessarily about the quality of instruction, but rather the interplay of geography and industry dynamics. Oswego's location in upstate New York isn't a primary hub for the government agencies, international NGOs, or multinational corporations that typically offer the most lucrative positions in IR/NatSec.
Many entry-level roles in this field, especially without an advanced degree or highly specialized skills, can involve foundational research or administrative support, which don't always command high starting salaries. Furthermore, with significant AI risk in some analytical roles, developing a unique human-centric skillset is crucial. To thrive, you'll likely need to be proactive about seeking internships in major policy centers like Washington D.C. or New York City, and be prepared to relocate for your first post-graduation role. Consider combining your studies with a niche language or data science to stand out.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to State University of New York at Oswego's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering International Relations
How State University of New York at Oswego stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at State University of New York at Oswego
Other highest-scoring programs offered at State University of New York at Oswego, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in International Relations offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare International Relations trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about International Relations at State University of New York at Oswego
What is the DegreeOutlook Score for International Relations at State University of New York at Oswego?
A score of 28/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for International Relations. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Will AI replace International Relations careers?
With 47% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $388,239 in decade earnings vs $381,903 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with International Relations from State University of New York at Oswego?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.