International/Global Studies at California State University-Monterey Bay

Cal State Monterey Bay's International/Global Studies program delivers exactly median outcomes for California—$34,246 first-year earnings—while keeping debt dramatically lower than most alternatives. At $14,093 in median debt, graduates owe roughly half what peers at other California schools typically carry ($15,454 state median, $21,966 national median). This puts the program in the 95th percentile nationally for low debt, a significant advantage for a field not known for high starting salaries.

The earnings gap with top UC programs is real but contextual. Berkeley grads earn $46,660, about 36% more, but also face steeper competition and higher living costs during school. For students choosing between CSU Monterey Bay and pricier alternatives, the question becomes whether that earnings premium justifies potentially doubling or tripling educational debt. With a 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio, Monterey Bay grads can realistically pay off loans within two years if they prioritize it—a flexibility many peers won't have.

The university's 95% admission rate and high Pell grant population (43%) suggest this program serves students who might not access flagship campuses. For those students, graduating with manageable debt and median-level earnings represents a genuine pathway into international affairs, NGO work, or graduate school without the financial strain that often forces career compromises.