International/Global Studies at University at Albany

University at Albany's International/Global Studies program outperforms most peers despite serving a predominantly middle-income student body. With first-year earnings of $35,683 climbing to $44,646 by year four, graduates earn more than 85% of New York programs and beat the national median by nearly $3,000. The debt load of $26,875 sits slightly below the national average but above New York's median—still resulting in a manageable 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio that's far better than what most global studies programs deliver.

The 25% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates are gaining traction in their careers, not just treading water. This matters for a liberal arts degree where the value often builds over time rather than paying off immediately. Among comparable New York programs, only Hofstra produces slightly higher early earnings, and UAlbany does it at a more accessible institution where 42% of students receive Pell grants.

The catch here is sample size—fewer than 30 recent graduates means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. But taken at face value, this program delivers solid returns for students interested in global affairs, especially compared to the typical outcomes for this major. For families concerned about liberal arts degrees, the debt burden here is contained and the earnings trajectory is positive.