International Relations and National Security Studies at Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University's International Relations program produces earnings well below both the Michigan median ($35,802) and the national median ($37,198) for this major. Starting at just $28,202—ranking in only the 13th percentile nationally—graduates earn about $7,600 less annually than the typical Michigan graduate in this field and roughly $10,600 less than their counterparts at Michigan State. Even by year four, earnings reach just $31,762, barely nudging ahead of what most graduates earn immediately after graduation elsewhere.

The $19,000 debt load is reasonable and lower than state and national medians, which helps explain the manageable 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio. However, the fundamental issue isn't affordability—it's that this program produces outcomes in the bottom quarter of Michigan programs in this field. For a major that already skews toward lower earnings nationally, ranking in the 25th percentile within the state suggests either weak industry connections or limited career services support for placing graduates in competitive positions.

For families considering this program, the question isn't whether they can afford the debt, but whether investing four years here makes sense when Central Michigan and Michigan State deliver $4,000-$10,000 more in annual earning power. Unless Grand Valley offers specific opportunities unavailable elsewhere—particular faculty expertise, internship networks, or location advantages—stronger in-state alternatives warrant serious consideration.