Is the cost of this degree worth the salary it leads to?
After graduation, public policy graduates typically earn high salaries compared to the national average. Top earners make $132,817, while the bottom 20% make closer to $30,391. The median grad salary is $63,533.
Public Policy graduate salaries over time
The typical early career salary for someone with a bachelor’s degree in public policy is $43,320, and within five years of graduation, this average salary goes up to $75,279.
This chart maps the average workforce wage by years of experience:
Wage ($USD)
Wage Range Median Wage
Years of work experience
Pro tip
Still unsure if a degree in public policy is your calling? Read our comprehensive guide on choosing a career
