Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
California's international business programs span a remarkable range, with outcomes varying by over $20,000 even among state schools. California Baptist's program, based on estimates from similar programs across the state, suggests first-year earnings around $48,000—right at California's median but trailing the stronger performers like San Francisco State ($58,560) and Cal State San Marcos ($55,455). That gap matters when you're comparing tuition costs and career trajectories in a competitive field.
The estimated $25,000 in debt produces a manageable 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio, which is better than the typical business graduate faces nationally. For a private Christian university serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (41%), these numbers suggest the program isn't pricing students into financial strain. However, parents should recognize that "international business" as a bachelor's degree often competes directly with general business administration, economics, or even supply chain management programs that may offer clearer career pathways or stronger employer pipelines.
The real question is whether CBU's specific program features—its internship connections, faculty networks, or global partnerships—can push graduates above that state median. Since we're working with estimates rather than this school's actual track record, talking directly with recent alumni and the career services office becomes essential. You need to know if CBU graduates are landing roles that justify private school tuition, or if your student might achieve similar outcomes at a CSU campus for considerably less.
Where California Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,720 | $48,463* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $13,160 | $71,369* | $61,843 | $27,195* | 0.38 | |
| $7,424 | $58,560* | $58,508 | $22,374* | 0.38 | |
| $58,222 | $57,780* | $69,821 | $25,000* | 0.43 | |
| $7,739 | $55,455* | — | $15,965* | 0.29 | |
| $56,444 | $48,463* | $76,666 | $19,197* | 0.40 | |
| National Median | — | $49,890* | — | $23,472* | 0.47 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with international business graduates
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
Business Continuity Planners
Sustainability Specialists
Online Merchants
Security Management Specialists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At California Baptist University, approximately 41% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.