Political Science at Valparaiso University
Valparaiso, IN · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
37
Optimistic
37
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings
$32,893/yr (-10% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI
3.4x earnings multiple
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 | $646K | $628K | $565K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.5x | 3.4x | 3.0x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 50% | 44% | 33% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 37 | 37 | 35 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$186,352
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
9.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$65,176
98% growth from Year 1
About Valparaiso University
A 92% acceptance rate means Valparaiso University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 2,229 in Valparaiso, IN. The average net cost of $86,332 over four years represents a 54% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Valparaiso University →Top Career Paths
Political scientists
$139,380/yr
Managers, all other
$136,550/yr
Economics teachers, postsecondary
$119,980/yr
Compare & Explore
Political Science at Other Schools
Other Majors at Valparaiso University
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 Valparaiso University's Political Science program score?
This program scores 37/100 — on the lower end for Political Science. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
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.
How affordable is Political Science at Valparaiso University after financial aid?
Sticker price is $186,352, but the average net cost is $86,332 — a 54% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →