International/Global Studies at Appalachian State University

The small sample size here demands caution, but the numbers tell a concerning story: Appalachian State's International/Global Studies graduates start at just $23,073—landing in the 5th percentile nationally and trailing the state median by $4,500. Even within North Carolina's 12 programs, this ranks in the bottom quarter, with NC State graduates earning nearly double at $45,648 just one year out. The $23,000 in debt equals a full year's starting salary, creating immediate financial pressure.

The 68% earnings jump to $38,769 by year four offers some hope, eventually matching the national 75th percentile. But that's a long wait for graduates who need to start repaying loans within six months. For context, the typical college graduate nationwide earns around $45,000 in their first year, making this program's starting point particularly challenging.

With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these figures might not represent the full picture—one or two outcomes could skew the data significantly. But even accounting for statistical noise, the combination of bottom-tier starting pay and typical debt levels suggests this particular program struggles to launch graduates into financially stable careers. Families banking on International Studies as a practical degree path should look closely at how Appalachian State's outcomes compare to alternatives, including other majors at the same institution where job placement might be stronger.