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Political Science and Government at East Tennessee State University

Johnson City, TN · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $37,594/yr (2% vs median)

AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (182,300 openings/yr)

ROI 11.7x earnings multiple (8.4x out-of-state)

Ranked #398 of 521 Political Science and Government programs

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	$462K	$465K	$442K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.6x	11.7x	11.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	8.4x	8.4x	8.0x
Probability of Field Employment	50%	44%	33%
DegreeOutlook Score	41	40	37

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$39,800

Out-of-state: $55,160 (8.4x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$63,176

-59% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$21,500

6.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$34,325

Small cohort — data may not reflect typical outcomes

Program Analysis

At $37,594/yr, Political Science and Government graduates from East Tennessee State University land near the $36,684 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 11.7x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 4% 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 $21,500 against $37,594/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #398 ranking among 521 Political Science and Government programs places East Tennessee State University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About East Tennessee State University

With 87% of applicants admitted, East Tennessee State University prioritizes broad access, enrolling 9,807 students in Johnson City, TN.

See all programs and financial aid at East Tennessee 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

Political Science and Government at Other Schools

Other Majors at East Tennessee State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 40/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Political Science and Government at East Tennessee State University?

At 40/100, 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 East Tennessee 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 →