Political Science at The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
49
Optimistic
49
Base Case
47
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,699/yr (-11% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI
12.5x earnings multiple (4.5x out-of-state)
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 | $611K | $597K | $541K |
| Earnings Multiple (In-State) | 12.8x | 12.5x | 11.4x |
| Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) | 4.6x | 4.5x | 4.1x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 50% | 44% | 33% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 49 | 49 | 47 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$47,600
Out-of-state: $132,800 (4.5x ROI)
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,250
8.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$61,049
87% growth from Year 1
About The University of Alabama
With 76% of applicants admitted, The University of Alabama prioritizes broad access, with 32,323 students enrolled in Tuscaloosa, AL.
See all programs and financial aid at The University of Alabama →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 The University of Alabama
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 49/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science at The University of Alabama?
At 49/100, 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 The University of Alabama?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →