Analysis
Pepperdine's International/Global Studies program shows strong momentum that's rare for this major. While graduates start at $36,920—respectable but not remarkable—earnings jump 37% by year four to reach $50,702. That growth trajectory outpaces most International Studies programs and pushes eventual earnings well above what Berkeley or UCLA graduates earn in their first year.
The financial foundation is solid: $26,000 in debt is below the national median and manageable against first-year earnings. Within California's competitive landscape, this program ranks in the 60th percentile—middle of the pack, but behind the UC system's heavy hitters. Still, the earnings acceleration matters more than the starting point. By year four, these graduates are earning considerably more than their peers at most California programs, even if they never quite catch Berkeley's immediate post-graduation advantage.
For parents concerned about liberal arts ROI, this program offers a viable path. The combination of reasonable debt and genuine earnings growth suggests graduates develop marketable skills that employers value increasingly over time. Just recognize you're paying a premium over state schools, and your child's trajectory will depend on leveraging Pepperdine's network effectively during those crucial early career years.
Where Pepperdine University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international/global studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Pepperdine University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | $36,920 | $50,702 | +37% |
| University of California-San Diego | $45,168 | $63,294 | +40% |
| University of California-Los Angeles | $39,082 | $59,381 | +52% |
| University of California-Irvine | $33,388 | $57,030 | +71% |
| University of California-Santa Barbara | $33,553 | $52,229 | +56% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
International/Global Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (32 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Pepperdine UniversityMalibu | $66,742 | $36,920 | $50,702 | $26,000 | 0.70 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $46,660 | — | $15,636 | 0.34 |
 University of California-San DiegoLa Jolla | $15,265 | $45,168 | $63,294 | $16,500 | 0.37 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $39,082 | $59,381 | $12,000 | 0.31 |
 California State University-Monterey BaySeaside | $7,437 | $34,246 | — | $14,093 | 0.41 |
 University of California-Santa BarbaraSanta Barbara | $14,965 | $33,553 | $52,229 | $14,792 | 0.44 |
| 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 Pepperdine 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.
Sample Size: Based on 30 graduates with reported earnings and 37 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.