International Relations at Central Michigan University

Mount Pleasant, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
44
Optimistic
44
Base Case
44
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,802/yr (-9% vs median)
AI Risk High (47% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)
ROI 10.2x earnings multiple
Ranked #53 of 106 International Relations programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to International Relations graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $591K $580K $531K
Earnings Multiple 10.4x 10.2x 9.4x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 48% 37%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 44 44

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$56,760
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$64,164
-13% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,750
9.0 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$59,452
66% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Central Michigan University's International Relations program produces graduates earning $35,802/yr — within striking distance of the $39,530 national average for this field.

With a 10.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some International Relations career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $26,750 against $35,802/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #53 ranking among 106 International Relations programs places Central Michigan University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $35,802-to-$59,452 earnings arc over five years reflects a 66% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Central Michigan University

A 91% acceptance rate means Central Michigan University is accessible to most applicants, enrolling 9,916 students in Mount Pleasant, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Central Michigan University →

Top Career Paths

Political scientists $139,380/yr
Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Political science teachers, postsecondary $94,680/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

International Relations at Other Schools

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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 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Relations at Central Michigan University?
At 44/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring International Relations programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study International Relations at Central Michigan University?
The 47% 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 →