International Business at Northeastern University

Northeastern's International Business program produces graduates who earn significantly more than peers at other Massachusetts schools—but it's worth understanding where that premium comes from. With first-year earnings of $80,848, graduates out-earn the state median for this program by nearly $13,000. That's a meaningful advantage, though notably, these graduates rank in the 60th percentile statewide, suggesting several Massachusetts programs deliver comparable outcomes at potentially lower cost or admission barriers.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $25,729, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 that most families can manage. Graduates see steady income growth to $91,133 by year four, which suggests the program's co-op structure and employer connections translate into solid career progression. The 95th percentile national ranking reflects both the program quality and Northeastern's brand strength—international business graduates here earn roughly $31,000 more than the national median for this major.

The real question is whether this premium justifies Northeastern's 6% admission rate and substantial tuition investment. For families who can afford it and whose children gain admission, the program delivers strong returns with manageable debt. However, if your child is comparing multiple Massachusetts acceptances, know that other state programs may offer similar early-career outcomes at lower total cost—the earnings advantage here is real but not overwhelming within the state.