International/Global Studies at Colorado State University-Fort Collins

Colorado State's International/Global Studies program starts graduates at a rough $28,919—below the national median and earning less than three-quarters of comparable programs nationally. But here's what matters for Colorado families: this program actually hits the state median exactly and outperforms 60% of similar in-state programs, including University of Colorado Denver. The manageable $19,763 in debt (below both state and national medians) means graduates aren't drowning while they build their careers.

The compelling part is the trajectory: earnings jump 42% to $41,037 by year four, a growth rate that signals this program prepares students for mid-career advancement rather than immediate high salaries. This pattern makes sense for international studies, where entry positions in nonprofits or government often pay modestly but experience opens better doors. The 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming given this field's typical starting point.

For families comparing Colorado options, this program delivers middle-of-the-pack results at a lower debt burden than most alternatives. You're not getting CU Boulder's stronger earning power (which starts $5,000 higher), but you're also taking on reasonable debt for a field where passion and connections often matter as much as pedigree. Just understand your graduate will likely need those first few years to build toward a sustainable income.