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Political Science and Government at University of Maine

Orono, ME · Public · Bachelor's Degree

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

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $38,235/yr (4% vs median)

AI Risk Very High (50% exposed)

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

ROI 11.2x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)

Ranked #149 of 521 Political Science and Government programs Top 50%

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	$575K	$566K	$518K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	11.4x	11.2x	10.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.1x	4.0x	3.7x
Probability of Field Employment	50%	44%	33%
DegreeOutlook Score	53	52	49

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$50,424

Out-of-state: $141,384 (4.0x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$72,180

-43% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$24,750

7.8 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$59,286

55% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $38,235/yr, Political Science and Government graduates from University of Maine land near the $36,684 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 11.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 10% 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 $24,750 against $38,235/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #149 ranking among 521 Political Science and Government programs places University of Maine in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $38,235-to-$59,286 earnings arc over five years reflects a 55% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Maine

With 96% of applicants admitted, University of Maine prioritizes broad access, serving 8,341 students in Orono, ME.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Maine →

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

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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 Political Science and Government at University of Maine?

At 52/100, University of Maine's Political Science and Government program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.

Should I worry about AI if I study Political Science and Government at University of Maine?

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 →