Analysis
Looking at comparable International Studies programs across Massachusetts, this degree appears positioned right in the middle of the state's range—significantly stronger than the national median of $33,000, but trailing elite private schools like Bentley and Boston College. With estimated first-year earnings around $46,500 and debt of $23,600, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51 sits in reasonable territory, though these figures reflect what similar programs typically produce rather than Endicott's specific track record.
The challenge is that International Studies as a field rarely generates robust early-career earnings regardless of school prestige. Even Holy Cross graduates at this income level aren't exactly commanding the job market, and programs elsewhere in the state dip below $30,000. The major itself tends to require strategic career planning—think government positions, nonprofits, or graduate school—which means your child would need clear direction about how to leverage the degree beyond its face value.
Given Endicott's 72% admission rate and the absence of program-specific outcomes data, you're essentially betting that their particular approach to International Studies will match what peer programs deliver. That's not necessarily a bad bet at this debt level, but it does mean your child should have concrete post-graduation plans that don't rely on the degree opening doors by itself. If they're passionate about global affairs and have internship or language skills to complement the credential, the numbers work. If they're still figuring things out, a less expensive option might preserve more flexibility.
Where Endicott College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international/global studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
International/Global Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,212 | $46,530* | — | $23,625* | — | |
| $58,150 | $75,006* | — | $23,625* | 0.31 | |
| $67,680 | $51,371* | $60,157 | $19,000* | 0.37 | |
| $60,850 | $46,530* | — | $23,000* | 0.49 | |
| $64,946 | $36,874* | $60,540 | $25,694* | 0.70 | |
| $46,686 | $29,688* | — | $27,000* | 0.91 | |
| National Median | — | $32,819* | — | $21,966* | 0.67 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with international/global studies graduates
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 Endicott College, approximately 13% 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 5 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.