International/Global Studies at Saint Edward's University

Saint Edward's delivers something rare in International Studies: meaningful income growth after graduation. Starting at $36,305—already above the national median—graduates see their earnings jump 34% to $48,495 by year four. That's not just cost-of-living adjustments; it suggests graduates are landing jobs with real advancement potential, possibly leveraging Austin's tech sector or international business community in ways that pure liberal arts programs often struggle to match.

The debt picture reinforces this as a manageable investment. At $23,625, borrowers owe less than two-thirds of their first-year salary, and with earnings climbing steadily, that ratio only improves. Among Texas International Studies programs, Saint Edward's sits right at the state median for starting salaries but appears to offer stronger growth trajectories than most competitors outside the flagship universities. You're paying less than UT Austin would cost while getting earnings that land in the 60th percentile statewide.

The moderate sample size means individual outcomes will vary, and the 84% admission rate tells you this isn't a hyper-selective program. But for parents weighing affordability against outcomes, this hits a reasonable balance: competitive debt levels, above-average starting pay, and clear evidence that graduates aren't stuck in entry-level positions four years out.