International Business at University at Buffalo

UB's International Business program ranks among the lowest-earning in New York State and nationally, with graduates starting at just $35,141—nearly $14,000 below the state median and $15,000 below what similar programs typically deliver. While the 26% earnings growth to $44,224 by year four shows positive momentum, graduates are still earning less at that point than peers from CUNY Baruch ($52,290) make right out of the gate. The program lands in just the 5th percentile nationally and 25th percentile statewide, meaning roughly 95% of similar programs produce better initial outcomes.

The modest $22,782 debt load offers some consolation—it's manageable at 0.65 times first-year earnings. But this raises a critical question: why accept significantly lower earning potential when stronger programs like Farmingdale State ($44,903) or SUNY Baruch offer better starting salaries within the state system, likely at comparable cost? For an international business degree specifically, Buffalo's outcomes suggest either weak employer connections or curriculum that doesn't align with market demands.

If your child is set on UB for other reasons (campus fit, specific faculty, location), understand they'll likely need to be more aggressive about internships and networking to close the earnings gap. Otherwise, this is one case where the SUNY system offers demonstrably better alternatives for the same credential.