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Best Value Political Science and Government Colleges in Alabama

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Troy University produces Political Science and Government graduates earning $32,925 annually while maintaining a net cost of just $13,869, creating one of the strongest value propositions in Alabama higher education. The $19,056 earnings premium over the state's lowest-earning program demonstrates how institutional choice directly impacts career outcomes. Alabama's growing aerospace sector, anchored by NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and major manufacturers like Airbus, creates substantial opportunities for political science graduates in government relations, regulatory affairs, and public administration roles. The 20 programs span a $21,953 net cost range, from University of North Alabama at $11,024 to Tuskegee University at $32,977. Auburn University achieves the highest graduation rate at 79.20%, while several public institutions maintain acceptance rates above 90%. The Alabama Student Grant Program provides additional financial support for in-state students, making these already affordable programs even more accessible for residents pursuing government and policy careers.
20
Programs
$11,024 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$29,710
Avg. Program Earnings
53.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

20 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $13,869 $32,925 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
2 $17,727 $32,569 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
3 $15,142 $25,967 $9,676 52.6% 65.4%
4 $22,150 $29,141 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
5 $23,897 $31,305 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
6 $32,977 $26,353 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%
7 $14,596 $9,436 35.7% 92.2%
8 $23,351 $22,750 64.2% 57.2%
9 $21,401 $28,650 46.9% 66.0%
10 $14,850 $12,426 51.1% 78.5%
11 $14,514 $12,714 25.7%
12 $19,603 $26,120 55.5% 84.1%
13 $17,053 $13,710 49.4% 59.8%
14 $11,024 $11,990 54.0% 95.7%
15 $23,384 $21,838 49.9% 68.1%
16 $30,795 $38,144 79.9% 83.3%
17 $13,889 $11,248 30.2% 96.6%
18 $19,514 $23,270 56.1% 72.6%
19 $19,880 $11,770 61.9% 78.1%
20 $14,559 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for Troy University's strong earnings outcomes compared to other Alabama political science programs?

Troy University graduates earn $32,925 annually, ranking first among Alabama political science programs while maintaining a moderate net cost of $13,869. The university's established connections with state government and military installations contribute to strong job placement rates. Troy's 46.80% graduation rate, while lower than some peers, reflects the institution's accessibility combined with career-focused outcomes for students who complete their degrees.

How do public versus private Political Science and Government program costs compare in Alabama?

Public universities dominate the value equation, with net costs ranging from $11,024 at University of North Alabama to $23,897 at Auburn University. Private institutions span $14,514 at Miles College to $32,977 at Tuskegee University. The $4,127 difference between Troy University's net cost and Auburn's reflects varying state funding levels and institutional priorities across Alabama's public system.

Does graduation rate correlate with program value in Alabama political science programs?

Auburn University combines the highest graduation rate at 79.20% with strong earnings of $31,305, though its $23,897 net cost reflects this quality premium. University of Alabama achieves 73.70% graduation rates with $29,141 earnings at $22,150 net cost. Several lower-cost options like Troy University and University of North Alabama maintain graduation rates between 46-54% while delivering competitive career outcomes.

Where do Alabama political science graduates typically find employment given the state's economic profile?

Alabama's aerospace and automotive manufacturing growth creates government relations opportunities with companies like Hyundai and Airbus. NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center employs policy analysts and administrative professionals. State government positions in Montgomery and federal roles across multiple agencies provide traditional public sector pathways. The state's increasing corporate presence expands opportunities in regulatory compliance and business-government interface roles.

Is there a significant debt burden difference among Alabama political science programs?

Available debt data shows relatively manageable levels, ranging from $19,500 at University of North Alabama and University of Alabama at Birmingham to $25,125 at Troy University. Auburn University reports $20,500 in student debt despite higher net costs, suggesting effective financial aid distribution. These debt levels remain reasonable compared to the $25,967 to $32,925 earnings range across Alabama political science programs.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.