International Relations at University of Arkansas

Fayetteville, AR · Public · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,612/yr (-43% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)
ROI 16.5x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #69 of 106 International Relations programs

Program Analysis

The earnings data for International Relations and National Security Studies at the University of Arkansas reflects the unique regional labor market. Fayetteville isn't a primary hub for federal agencies, major international organizations, or large defense contractors that typically drive higher salaries for these specialized roles. Graduates often find opportunities in state government, local non-profits, or broader administrative and analytical positions within Arkansas, where compensation scales differ significantly from national averages found in Washington D.C. or major metropolitan areas. This program likely provides a robust academic foundation, but securing those direct, high-paying national security or international development careers often requires proactive out-of-state internships, extensive networking, or pursuing an advanced degree. If you're passionate about this field at U of A, be prepared to strategically seek opportunities beyond the state's borders or leverage your analytical skills for adaptable roles that may not fit the conventional IR/NS path.

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 $661K $643K $580K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 17.0x 16.5x 14.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.7x 5.6x 5.0x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 48% 37%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 38 38

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,992
Out-of-state: $115,088 (5.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$70,100
-80% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,500
10.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,811
156% growth from Year 1

About University of Arkansas

A 72% acceptance rate means University of Arkansas is accessible to most applicants, with 27,312 students enrolled in Fayetteville, AR.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Arkansas →

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

Other Majors at University of Arkansas

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DegreeOutlook Score for International Relations at University of Arkansas?
A score of 38/100 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 $579,758 in decade earnings vs $661,247 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with International Relations from University of Arkansas?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →