Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 based on comparable international business programs suggests manageable student loan payments—roughly half a year's salary to repay. With estimates pointing to around $25,000 in debt and first-year earnings near $50,000, monthly federal loan payments would consume about 6% of gross income under standard repayment terms. That's workable, though not exceptional.
The concerning part is the earnings trajectory. While peer programs suggest starting salaries around $50,000, Champlain's reported four-year earnings of $51,540 show minimal growth—just $1,650 over three years. For context, international business programs nationally produce a wide range of outcomes, with top programs reaching $57,537 at the median. The flat earnings curve here could reflect graduates staying in Vermont's smaller market, where international business roles are limited, or it might indicate that the specific skills mix Champlain emphasizes doesn't command rapid salary growth.
Given that Champlain is one of only two schools offering this major in Vermont, prospective families should investigate where graduates actually land geographically and in what roles. If your student plans to stay in Burlington, understand that international business opportunities will be constrained compared to gateway cities. The debt burden appears reasonable, but the muted earnings growth means this program likely works best for students with clear career plans that align with Vermont's economy or who intend to relocate to larger markets after graduation.
Where Champlain College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Champlain College | — | $51,540 | — |
| George Washington University | $70,856 | $101,930 | +44% |
| Georgetown University | $81,800 | $101,821 | +24% |
| University of Wisconsin-Madison | $66,591 | $94,010 | +41% |
| University of Delaware | $57,941 | $92,663 | +60% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
International Business bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,550 | $49,890* | $51,540 | $25,000* | — | |
| $65,081 | $81,800* | $101,821 | $14,447* | 0.18 | |
| $63,141 | $80,848* | $91,133 | $25,729* | 0.32 | |
| $64,701 | $74,529* | $86,976 | $22,250* | 0.30 | |
| $13,160 | $71,369* | $61,843 | $27,195* | 0.38 | |
| $12,688 | $70,992* | $89,299 | $25,174* | 0.35 | |
| 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 Champlain College, approximately 23% 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 national median of 103 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.