International Business at Georgia Southern University

Borrowing $26,842 to earn an estimated $45,908 in the first year produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio, but the uncertainty here matters more than usual. Because this program's actual outcomes aren't reported—likely due to a small number of graduates—we're looking at what comparable International Business programs across Georgia typically produce. That state benchmark of $45,908 sits about $4,000 below the national median, which isn't surprising given Georgia's cost of living advantage, but it does mean graduates aren't commanding premium starting salaries.

The real concern is the range. Georgia's International Business programs vary wildly, from UGA's $67,000+ outcomes to Valdosta State's $30,000s. Without actual data from Georgia Southern specifically, you're betting that this program performs closer to the state average than either extreme. At a 90% admission rate and with relatively modest SAT scores, Georgia Southern serves a different student population than UGA, but it's also more established than some alternatives. The estimated debt load is slightly higher than the national median, which tightens margins if earnings disappoint.

If your student is committed to international business and wants to stay in Georgia, this could work—but only if they understand they're making decisions with incomplete information about this specific program's track record. Consider asking the school directly about job placement rates and typical employer partners before committing.