Analysis
Michigan's international business programs show a wide performance range, with first-year outcomes varying from under $32,000 to nearly $60,000. Based on comparable programs in the state, Cleary's graduates likely earn around $59,000 in their first year—positioning near the top of Michigan outcomes and well above the $50,000 national median for this degree.
The estimated $25,000 debt load produces a manageable 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months of their first-year salary. This sits comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold where annual debt matches annual income. For context, this debt level aligns closely with what similar business programs across the country typically report, suggesting Cleary maintains reasonable costs despite being a private institution.
The practical advantage here is that international business degrees typically lead to business analyst, supply chain, or trade compliance roles where early earnings stability matters. If Cleary's actual outcomes match what peer programs achieve, this would represent a solid investment—particularly for students who can keep debt near this estimated level. However, the lack of reported data means you're betting on Cleary performing like Wayne State or Grand Valley rather than seeing proof it does. Request graduation and job placement rates directly from the school to fill in these gaps.
Where Cleary University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $24,842 | $58,746* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $14,297 | $59,350* | $72,684 | $23,472* | 0.40 | |
| $14,628 | $58,746* | $72,435 | $24,397* | 0.42 | |
| $15,510 | $31,476* | — | $25,330* | 0.80 | |
| 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 Cleary University, approximately 27% 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 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.