International Business at Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University's international business graduates start with solid earnings—$56,320 in the first year, which beats the national median by $6,400 and places them in the 71st percentile nationally. The debt load of $35,044 is higher than typical for this field (about $11,500 above the national median), but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 remains manageable. With 47% of students receiving Pell grants, this program provides access to a nationally competitive career path for students who might not have traditional opportunities.

The main concern is the earnings trajectory: graduates see their income dip to $53,425 by year four, a 5% decline when most careers should be climbing. This pattern deserves scrutiny, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly with more data. Among New Hampshire's three programs, this one sits at the 60th percentile—middle of the pack locally but above average nationally.

For families weighing this option, the opening salary justifies the debt burden, particularly for students who need SNHU's accessible admission structure. However, the earnings decline warrants a conversation about career support and alumni outcomes. If your child has options at schools with stronger upward trajectories, compare carefully. If accessibility and immediate employability are priorities, this program delivers a respectable starting point.