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International Relations at Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · International Relations and National Security Studies

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $38,810/yr (-2% vs median)

AI Risk High (47% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (108,800 openings/yr)

ROI 10.9x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)

Ranked #20 of 106 International Relations programs Top 25%

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	$723K	$698K	$622K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.3x	10.9x	9.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.2x	4.0x	3.6x
Probability of Field Employment	53%	48%	37%
DegreeOutlook Score	53	52	51

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$63,952

Out-of-state: $173,488 (4.0x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$83,004

-30% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$23,750

7.3 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$75,882

96% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $38,810/yr, International Relations graduates from Michigan State University land near the $39,530 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 10.9x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 14% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some International Relations career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $23,750 against $38,810/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Michigan State University ranks #20 among 106 International Relations programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The $38,810-to-$75,882 earnings arc over five years reflects a 96% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Michigan State University

With 84% of applicants admitted, Michigan State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 40,243 in East Lansing, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Michigan State 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 52/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Relations at Michigan State University?

At 52/100, Michigan State University's International Relations program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.

Should I worry about AI if I study International Relations at Michigan State 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.

Is Michigan State University one of the best schools for International Relations?

Among 106 International Relations programs, Michigan State University's #20 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →