Program Analysis
At $34,711/yr, Political Science and Government graduates from Mercyhurst University land near the $36,684 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.
An earnings multiple of 3.3x means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition, but not by a dramatic margin. Returns are positive but modest.
Some AI exposure exists in Political Science and Government's typical career paths, with 50% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 11% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $24,500 represents roughly 8 months of the $34,711 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
Ranked #434 of 521 Political Science and Government programs, Mercyhurst University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $60,520 show a 74% jump from the $34,711 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration.