Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $25,058/yr fall 32% below the $36,684 national median for Political Science and Government. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
The 4.5x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 50% task exposure — and the 22% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $26,909 debt load exceeds a year of the $25,058 starting salary, suggesting a multi-year repayment window before graduates break even financially.
At #411 out of 521 programs, Muhlenberg College's financial outcomes for Political Science and Government trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
Earnings growth from $25,058 to $98,108 over five years (292% increase) indicates that graduates in this field see meaningful salary progression.