Political Science Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of government systems, political behavior, and public policy.
Starting Salary
$45K
median
Mid-Career
$72K
salary
ROI Payback
5.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4%
rate
Political Science Overview
Study of government systems, political behavior, and public policy.
Category
Social Sciences
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
63%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
30%
Lifetime Premium
$400K
Female Graduates
48%
Political Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$17,100
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$17,100
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$382,900
Lifetime earnings premium ($400,000) minus net degree cost ($17,100)
Political Science Salary Progression
Common Political Science Careers
Policy Analyst
Legislative Aide
Political Consultant
Lobbyist
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Political Science
#1
Harvard
#2
Princeton
#3
Stanford
#4
Yale
#5
Georgetown
Related Majors
Political Science Degree FAQ
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