International/Global Studies at Aquinas College

Similar International/Global Studies programs in Michigan suggest first-year earnings around $38,400, which would place Aquinas's graduates near the state median and slightly above the $32,800 national benchmark. That's meaningful context: while Michigan peers like University of Michigan-Ann Arbor report $44,400, being competitive with Michigan State's outcomes—at a much smaller, more accessible institution—indicates solid preparation for this field.

The estimated $24,200 in debt creates a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio, better than the national median debt of $22,000 when accounting for the stronger earnings. For a bachelor's degree at a private college, that's reasonable positioning. International/Global Studies often serves as a launching point for careers requiring graduate degrees or leads to entry-level positions in nonprofits, government, or international business—fields where starting salaries rarely impress but can grow with experience and specialization.

The challenge with estimates based on just three Michigan programs is uncertainty about Aquinas's specific outcomes. If your child is passionate about global affairs and this college offers strong advising, internship connections, and language immersion opportunities, the debt burden appears workable. But press the school for details on actual graduate outcomes—where alumni land jobs, which go to graduate school, and what career support looks like—before committing to a field where the path from degree to career often requires additional credentials or strategic networking.