Political Science and Government at Boise State University

Boise, ID · Public · Bachelor's Degree
48 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
49
Optimistic
48
Base Case
46
Pessimistic
Earnings $32,650/yr (-11% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)
ROI 15.4x earnings multiple (5.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #224 of 521 Political Science and Government programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Political Science and Government graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $549K $542K $500K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.6x 15.4x 14.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.1x 5.0x 4.6x
Probability of Field Employment 50% 44% 33%
DegreeOutlook Score 49 48 46

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,128
Out-of-state: $107,904 (5.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$76,728
-118% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,600
7.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$53,410
64% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $32,650 track close to the $36,684 national median for Political Science and Government programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 15.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Political Science and Government career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $20,600 against $32,650/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #224 ranking among 521 Political Science and Government programs places Boise State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $32,650-to-$53,410 earnings arc over five years reflects a 64% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Boise State University

Boise State University has a 84% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 17,081 students in Boise, ID.

See all programs and financial aid at Boise State University →

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

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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 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science and Government at Boise State University?
At 48/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Political Science and Government programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Political Science and Government at Boise State 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →