Political Science at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

Pembroke, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
39 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
40
Optimistic
39
Base Case
38
Pessimistic
Earnings $22,223/yr (-39% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI 32.8x earnings multiple (15.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #407 of 521 Political Science and Government programs

Program Analysis

The financial data here reflects the realities of pursuing a political science degree within a specific regional labor market. Many graduates from this program often find initial roles in local government, non-profits, or general business administration, where opportunities can be more limited compared to major metropolitan centers. The curriculum likely provides a strong foundation in critical thinking and civics, but without specialized quantitative skills, data analysis, or a clear path to an advanced degree, you might find yourself in generalist positions. These roles, while valuable, are often susceptible to automation, contributing to the "Very High" AI risk. To enhance your career prospects, consider proactively developing in-demand skills like data analytics, grant writing, or specific software proficiencies, and actively seek internships outside the immediate Pembroke area if higher-paying roles in policy or advocacy are your goal.

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 $465K $468K $444K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 32.5x 32.8x 31.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 15.3x 15.5x 14.7x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 40 39 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)
$14,284
Out-of-state: $30,284 (15.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$39,672
-178% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,900
14.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$37,969
71% growth from Year 1

About University of North Carolina at Pembroke

With 92% of applicants admitted, University of North Carolina at Pembroke prioritizes broad access, serving 5,386 students in Pembroke, NC. Pell Grant recipients make up 48% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at University of North Carolina at Pembroke →

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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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 Political Science at University of North Carolina at Pembroke?
A score of 39/100 indicates below-average financial outcomes for Political Science. Earnings, ROI, or AI risk factors are pulling the score down.
Is Political Science at University of North Carolina at Pembroke worth the student debt?
Median debt of $25,900 against $22,223/yr starting salary means roughly 1.2 years of earnings go to repayment. That's above average — financial aid and loan terms matter here.
Will AI replace Political Science careers?
With 50% of typical job tasks exposed to AI, this is one of the higher-risk fields. Our pessimistic scenario projects $444,050 in decade earnings vs $464,637 in the optimistic case — a meaningful gap.
Can you still earn well with Political Science from University of North Carolina at Pembroke?
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 →