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Cheapest International Relations and National Security Studies Colleges in Massachusetts

Ranked by lowest net price after financial aid. See our methodology.

UMass Boston delivers the state's most affordable International Relations and National Security Studies program at $18,282 annually, creating a striking $25,000 gap with the average private school cost of $43,273. This public option serves students who want to enter a field where Massachusetts employers like Raytheon, the State Department's Boston office, and numerous defense contractors actively recruit. The earnings data reveals significant variation, with Tufts graduates earning $48,139 compared to Suffolk graduates at $30,771. Gordon College breaks the typical cost pattern by offering private education at just $24,817, while elite schools like Wellesley and Northeastern maintain their high-cost, high-selectivity models. Massachusetts benefits from its proximity to Washington DC and strong defense industry presence, making it an ideal location for students preparing for careers in diplomacy, intelligence, and national security analysis.
16
Programs
$18,282 – $43,273
Net Price Range
$40,238
Avg. Program Earnings
74.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

16 International Relations and National Security Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,282 $15,496 51.1% 80.8%
2 $24,817 $28,100 67.6% 91.8%
3 $25,008 $64,320 91.2% 13.6%
4 $25,810 $56,630 57.2% 68.9%
5 $26,996 $65,168 90.0% 14.4%
6 $27,313 $45,538 71.2% 76.5%
7 $27,711 $55,160 77.1% 50.3%
8 $28,346 $47,770 69.5% 88.8%
9 $29,562 $64,142 85.0% 39.8%
10 $30,031 $45,380 59.8% 86.8%
11 $30,934 $62,080 75.7% 79.5%
12 $31,569 $46,686 65.8% 79.7%
13 $32,116 $63,141 90.4% 6.8%
14 $35,435 $67,844 93.3% 9.7%
15 $36,684 $66,594 54.2% 95.5%
16 $43,273 $59,070 88.4% 57.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $30,000 difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

UMass Boston charges $18,282 while several private colleges exceed $35,000 annually, reflecting the public versus private divide. However, Gordon College disrupts this pattern at $24,817, proving that some private institutions prioritize affordability. The higher-cost schools like Tufts and Northeastern typically offer extensive alumni networks and internship connections that can justify their premium pricing. Financial aid packages often narrow these gaps significantly for qualifying students.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Massachusetts?

The most expensive programs show the highest completion rates, with Tufts at 93.3% and Northeastern at 90.4%. However, UMass Boston achieves only a 51.1% graduation rate despite its affordability advantage. Mid-tier schools like Clark University balance cost and outcomes effectively, with a 77.1% graduation rate at $27,711 annually. This suggests that institutional support systems and student preparedness matter as much as program affordability.

Does the Massachusetts job market justify these program costs?

Graduates earn between $30,771 and $48,139 annually, with the highest earners attending Tufts and Mount Holyoke. Massachusetts hosts major defense contractors, think tanks, and federal agencies that actively recruit International Relations graduates. The state's proximity to Washington DC creates additional opportunities for internships and career advancement. Boston's role as a global city also opens doors to international organizations and consulting firms.

Where can students find the best value combination of cost and outcomes?

Gordon College offers strong value at $24,817 with a 67.6% graduation rate and 91.76% acceptance rate. Mount Holyoke provides strong earning potential at $45,696 with moderate debt levels of $18,486. Clark University represents another solid option with competitive costs and good graduation rates. UMass Boston remains unbeatable for pure affordability, though students should consider the lower graduation rate when making their decision.

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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.