Program Analysis
University of California-Santa Cruz's Political Science and Government program produces graduates earning $31,882/yr — within striking distance of the $36,684 national average for this field.
Every dollar of in-state tuition returns an estimated 10.7x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Political Science and Government programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Political Science and Government's typical career paths, with 50% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 12% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $16,703 represents roughly 6 months of the $31,882 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
At #248 of 521 Political Science and Government programs, University of California-Santa Cruz scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Five-year earnings of $63,776 show a 100% jump from the $31,882 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration.