Program Analysis
At $32,359/yr, Political Science and Government graduates from Western Illinois University land near the $36,684 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
The earnings-to-cost ratio of 7.8x signals a solid financial return — projected decade earnings comfortably exceed the tuition investment.
Some AI exposure exists in Political Science and Government's typical career paths, with 50% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 4% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $24,820 represents roughly 9 months of the $32,359 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
Ranked #452 of 521 Political Science and Government programs, Western Illinois University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Earnings grow from $32,359 to $41,581 over five years — a 28% increase that's moderate and in line with typical career progression.