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Vermont State University offers the state's most affordable International Relations and National Security Studies program at just $20,865 net cost, while Middlebury College commands $25,934 despite its 92.60% graduation rate. This $5,000 gap reflects Vermont's educational divide between public accessibility and elite private outcomes. The state's proximity to Canadian border crossings and federal agencies in nearby regions creates natural pathways for graduates entering diplomatic and security careers.
5
Programs
$20,865 – $31,918
Net Price Range
$47,343
Avg. Program Earnings
67.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

5 International Relations and National Security Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $20,865 $11,400 48.9% 49.8%
2 $25,600 $49,600 61.0% 82.6%
3 $25,934 $65,280 92.6% 12.7%
4 $30,033 $50,040 68.9% 85.2%
5 $31,918 $64,644 66.7% 45.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive earnings gap between Norwich and Middlebury graduates?

Norwich University graduates earn $38,721 annually while Middlebury College alumni command $55,964, a $17,000 difference. Norwich's military college tradition may channel graduates toward government service roles with structured but modest pay scales, while Middlebury's liberal arts approach often leads to higher-paying private sector positions.

How does Vermont State University achieve such low costs for this specialized field?

Vermont State University keeps net costs at $20,865 through aggressive in-state pricing at $11,400 and state grant programs. The 48.90% graduation rate suggests the program maintains affordability partly by accepting students who may struggle with completion, creating a high-risk but low-cost option.

Does acceptance rate predict program quality in Vermont's International Relations schools?

The data shows an inverse relationship between selectivity and affordability rather than quality. Middlebury accepts only 12.69% of applicants but costs $25,934, while Saint Michael's accepts 85.15% at $30,033, suggesting different institutional strategies rather than clear quality hierarchies.

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