International/Global Studies at Arcadia University

Arcadia's International/Global Studies program shows promising mid-term earnings growth, but the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these figures could shift significantly year to year. That said, the trajectory is encouraging: graduates start at $30,872 but reach $48,459 by year four, a 57% jump that suggests the program may prepare students for roles where experience matters more than immediate credentials. Within Pennsylvania, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, meaning it outperforms more than half of competing programs in the state, though it trails Drexel's significantly higher outcomes.

The debt picture is notably favorable. At $27,000, graduates borrow less than the national median for this field, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.87 means they owe less than one year's starting salary—a manageable burden. Combined with that four-year earnings growth, most borrowers should be able to handle repayment without major strain.

The real question is whether that first year, when earnings hover around $31,000, feels sustainable to your family. International Studies careers often require unpaid internships or entry-level positions that don't immediately pay off, but the data suggests patience may reward graduates. Just remember: with such a small cohort reporting, these numbers are more directional than definitive. If your student is drawn to global affairs and can weather a modest starting salary, the growth pattern here is more encouraging than the initial figure might suggest.