Political Science at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
57 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
58
Optimistic
57
Base Case
53
Pessimistic
Earnings $39,702/yr (8% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI 10.1x earnings multiple (3.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #65 of 521 Political Science and Government programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

A Political Science degree from a highly selective institution like Michigan carries significant weight, leveraging the university's formidable reputation and expansive alumni network. Your earnings potential here isn't just about the major, but the rigorous analytical, research, and communication skills you'll develop, highly valued across numerous sectors. Many graduates pursue further education, particularly in law or public policy, while others enter consulting, government, non-profits, or even corporate roles where strategic thinking is critical. The program's strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach and Michigan's reach, opening doors far beyond traditional political roles. While AI might automate some data analysis, your ability to synthesize information, advocate, and lead remains paramount. Actively seek out internships in policy, advocacy, or even corporate strategy to translate your academic strengths into practical experience and clarify your long-term path.

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 $727K $699K $618K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.5x 10.1x 9.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.1x 3.0x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 58 57 53

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (3.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,965
5.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$78,402
97% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor admits 18% of applicants, placing it among selective institutions, with 33,488 students enrolled in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

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

Other Majors at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Political Science program score?
This program scores 57/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Political Science graduates.
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 does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor rank so high for Political Science?
The #65 ranking out of 521 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable relative to income, and the job market supports the field.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →