Analysis
The strongest case for UF's International/Global Studies program isn't the starting salary—it's the trajectory. While graduates earn just $29,043 in their first year (below both state and national medians), earnings surge 71% by year four to reach $49,731. That growth rate suggests these graduates are landing in careers where global expertise becomes increasingly valuable with experience, though the starting point sits near the bottom quarter nationally.
The $12,000 median debt figure is exceptionally low—better than 95% of comparable programs nationwide and well below Florida's $18,625 median for this major. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means graduates owe less than half their first-year salary, making the initial earnings dip far more manageable than it would be at most other schools. Among Florida's 12 programs, UF sits in the middle at the 40th percentile for earnings, trailing Central Florida's $38,953 but matching North Florida's outcomes.
For families willing to weather a modest first year, this program offers a reasonable path forward. The combination of minimal debt from a selective flagship university and strong earnings growth suggests graduates find their footing relatively quickly. The moderate sample size means individual outcomes will vary, but the data shows a pattern of delayed rather than diminished returns.
Where University of Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international/global studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida | $29,043 | $49,731 | +71% |
| American Public University System | $64,133 | $73,010 | +14% |
| Drexel University | $40,189 | $65,148 | +62% |
| University of Central Florida | $38,953 | $51,256 | +32% |
| University of North Florida | $30,861 | $40,952 | +33% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
International/Global Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of FloridaGainesville | $6,381 | $29,043 | $49,731 | $12,000 | 0.41 |
 University of Central FloridaOrlando | $6,368 | $38,953 | $51,256 | $20,142 | 0.52 |
 University of North FloridaJacksonville | $6,389 | $30,861 | $40,952 | $18,625 | 0.60 |
| 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 University of Florida, approximately 22% 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 62 graduates with reported earnings and 55 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.