International Business at Boise State University

Boise State's International Business program starts graduates at $42,039—well below the $49,890 national median for this major, landing at just the 21st percentile nationally. That's a significant gap, though it's worth noting this program is based on fewer than 30 graduates, so individual circumstances could swing these numbers considerably. The $25,419 in median debt sits close to national norms, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60, but the real question is whether those starting earnings justify the investment.

The state context offers some perspective: among Idaho's two International Business programs, this one ranks at the 60th percentile, meaning it performs slightly better than the alternative. Still, Idaho's median for this program matches Boise State's exactly at $42,039, suggesting the state's market for international business graduates may simply pay less than coastal hubs where these roles typically cluster. The 34% earnings growth to $56,511 by year four is solid and beats many business programs that plateau faster, but you're still catching up to where many programs start.

For a family considering this path, the small sample size means you should talk directly to the career services office about placement outcomes and whether internships connect to actual international business roles. If your child is set on international business, there may be stronger options out of state—but if staying in Idaho matters and they're committed to the field, the manageable debt keeps the risk contained.