Cynthia C asked:


I’m working toward a PhD in Political Science. My concentration is International Relations, and I’d prefer to teach at a large research university. I know about how much faculty members in my field earn, but, frankly…I’m a little worried about being able to pay off my student loans.

If you’ve earned your PhD, or if you have information about this topic, what do you think is a reasonable amount of debt to have after you get your PhD? Can you reasonably pay it off on a professor’s salary?

I know that it would depend on the amount of debt and how much the position pays, but if you can share your experiences, I’d be appreciative. Thanks.
I’m funded, by the way, but the stipend at my tiny public school is ridiculous. Because I’m funded, I’m full-time and will get out in 5 years (well, 4 years left), and I can’t work outside the department for more than 10 hours a week (it’s an unofficial rule, but they do frown upon it). I worked full-time as an undergrad, but I’m really not sure I could handle working at all outside of my classes and TA/GA responsibilities.

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