Area Studies at University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD · Public · Bachelor's Degree
32 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
32
Base Case
33
Pessimistic
Earnings $24,699/yr (-31% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Small (1,100 openings/yr)
ROI 15.1x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #25 of 66 Area Studies programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

While the raw earnings figures might seem discouraging, they reflect a specific, prestigious career track common for UMD graduates. Your proximity to Washington, D.C., creates an unparalleled pipeline into federal government, intelligence agencies, international non-profits, and policy think tanks. These fields often prioritize passion and public service over high initial salaries, and many roles require lengthy security clearances that can delay peak earning years. You aren’t competing for corporate jobs; you’re competing for coveted roles at the State Department, USAID, or the Brookings Institution. The Area Studies curriculum here is designed to build the deep regional expertise these employers demand. To maximize your prospects, aggressively pursue D.C.-based internships throughout your undergraduate career—they are the primary gateway to a full-time offer in this unique ecosystem.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Area Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $722K $694K $614K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.7x 15.1x 13.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.5x 4.3x 3.8x
Probability of Field Employment 55% 48% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 33 32 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)
$46,020
Out-of-state: $161,224 (4.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$62,360
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,750
8.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$64,545
161% growth from Year 1

About University of Maryland-College Park

University of Maryland-College Park accepts 45% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, serving a student body of 30,246 in College Park, MD.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Maryland-College Park →

Top Career Paths

Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary $84,290/yr
View all 1 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Area Studies at Other Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 32/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Area Studies at University of Maryland-College Park?
At 32/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Area Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Area Studies at University of Maryland-College Park?
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.
Is University of Maryland-College Park a good choice for Area Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of Maryland-College Park's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →