Political Science at University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
42 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
43
Optimistic
42
Base Case
39
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,063/yr (4% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI 2.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #347 of 521 Political Science and Government programs

Program Analysis

Your USC Political Science and Government degree positions you uniquely due to the university's strong reputation and its location in Los Angeles. The analytical and communication skills you develop are highly valued across diverse sectors, opening doors not just to direct political roles but also to fields like law, policy analysis, strategic communications, and even business development within the city's dynamic entertainment, tech, and international trade economies. This broad applicability explains the varied career paths you'll see. While some analytical and administrative tasks may face AI augmentation, focusing on high-level strategic thinking, ethical reasoning, and complex problem-solving – areas where human insight remains paramount – will be crucial. Leverage USC's extensive alumni network and take advantage of internship opportunities in local government, advocacy groups, or major corporations to build practical experience and secure strong early career trajectories.

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 $732K $705K $622K
Earnings Multiple 2.7x 2.6x 2.3x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 43 42 39

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$272,948
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$127,708
53% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$12,000
3.8 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$78,005
105% growth from Year 1

About University of Southern California

University of Southern California's 10% admission rate places it in the top tier of selectivity nationally, serving a student body of 20,817 in Los Angeles, CA. After financial aid, the average student pays $127,708 over four years — 53% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Southern California →

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 Southern California

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

What does a 42/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science at University of Southern California?
At 42/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Political Science programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Political Science at University of Southern California?
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.
What do students actually pay for Political Science at University of Southern California?
The 53% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $272,948. At a net cost of $127,708, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →