Political Science at Willamette University
Salem, OR · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Political Science and Government
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
40
Optimistic
39
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings
$35,162/yr (-4% vs median)
AI Risk
Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market
Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI
3.3x 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 | $651K | $633K | $568K |
| Earnings Multiple | 3.4x | 3.3x | 2.9x |
| Probability of Field Employment | 50% | 44% | 33% |
| DegreeOutlook Score | 40 | 39 | 37 |
10-Year Earnings Projection
*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.
4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$193,072
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,915
7.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$67,123
91% growth from Year 1
About Willamette University
A 79% acceptance rate means Willamette University is accessible to most applicants, with a smaller student body of 1,525 in Salem, OR. The average net cost of $94,652 over four years represents a 51% discount from published tuition.
See all programs and financial aid at Willamette 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 Willamette 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
What does a 39/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science at Willamette University?
At 39/100, 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 Willamette University?
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 Willamette University?
The 51% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $193,072. At a net cost of $94,652, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research.
See full methodology →