Political Science at University of Louisiana at Monroe

Monroe, LA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
34 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
35
Optimistic
34
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings $23,450/yr (-36% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI 13.7x earnings multiple (5.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #463 of 521 Political Science and Government programs

Program Analysis

The earnings figures for this Political Science and Government program reflect the specific economic landscape and career pipelines available to graduates in the Monroe, Louisiana region. Unlike programs situated in major political or economic hubs, opportunities for high-paying roles directly in policy, lobbying, or federal government are less prevalent locally. Many graduates here leverage their analytical and communication skills in generalist roles within local government, non-profits, education, or even local businesses. To truly excel, you'll need to be proactive. Given the field's "Very High" AI risk, focus on developing complementary, in-demand skills like data analysis, advanced communication, or project management. Actively pursuing internships, even if they require travel, and being open to relocating to larger metropolitan areas post-graduation will significantly broaden your career prospects and earning potential beyond what the local market typically offers.

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 $504K $502K $470K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 13.7x 13.7x 12.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.9x 5.9x 5.5x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 35 34 33

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$36,760
Out-of-state: $85,160 (5.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$46,532
-27% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,467
12.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$43,323
85% growth from Year 1

About University of Louisiana at Monroe

University of Louisiana at Monroe accepts 75% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, a smaller institution with 4,891 students in Monroe, LA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Louisiana at Monroe →

Top Career Paths

Political scientists $139,380/yr
Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Economics teachers, postsecondary $119,980/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Political Science at Other Schools

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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

How does University of Louisiana at Monroe's Political Science program score?
This program scores 34/100 — on the lower end for Political Science. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do University of Louisiana at Monroe Political Science graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.0x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Political Science to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Political Science careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 50% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Political Science earnings lower at University of Louisiana at Monroe?
Lower starting pay at University of Louisiana at Monroe may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →