Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $35,792 track close to the $39,530 national median for International Relations programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.
The 3.1x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 47% task exposure — and the 9% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $20,094 debt-to-$35,792 income ratio translates to about 7 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #88 out of 106 programs, DePaul University's financial outcomes for International Relations trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $35,792 to $55,741 over five years (56% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.