Analysis
John Carroll's International Business program shows promise based on what similar Ohio programs produce, though the lack of school-specific data means families need to consider this as one data point among many. Programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $57,400, which would place graduates solidly in the middle of the national pack for this degree—matching the 75th percentile nationally. At an estimated $25,000 in debt, the financial burden appears manageable, with graduates potentially earning more than twice their debt in the first year.
The bigger question is whether John Carroll's particular approach—smaller class sizes, Jesuit emphasis on ethics and global engagement—translates into outcomes that justify choosing this program over larger state schools like Ohio State, where graduates report nearly identical earnings. The school's 81% admission rate and modest Pell grant enrollment (20%) suggest a relatively affluent student body that may have family support beyond what debt figures capture.
For families paying full freight at a private university, the key is understanding that these estimates reflect the broader Ohio market for international business majors, not necessarily John Carroll's specific track record. If your child thrives in smaller, values-centered environments and you can manage the costs comfortably, the program appears financially viable. But if debt will be a stretch, you'll want to have honest conversations with the career services office about their actual placement rates before committing.
Where John Carroll University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (36 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,100 | $57,396* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $12,859 | $57,678* | $69,493 | $27,000* | 0.47 | |
| $6,178 | $57,396* | — | $27,000* | 0.47 | |
| $6,178 | $57,396* | — | $27,000* | 0.47 | |
| $6,178 | $57,396* | — | $27,000* | 0.47 | |
| $6,178 | $57,396* | — | $27,000* | 0.47 | |
| 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 John Carroll University, approximately 20% 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 12 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.