International/Global Studies at University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's International/Global Studies program starts graduates $4,700 below the national median for this field, but that initial gap closes dramatically over four years—earnings jump 70% to reach $47,719. In Iowa specifically, this program actually performs at the median (60th percentile), meaning the national comparison is less relevant than it first appears; Iowa's international studies graduates simply earn less across the board than their coastal counterparts.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $25,242, creating a manageable 0.90 ratio to first-year earnings that resolves itself as income grows. That early earnings dip is typical for global studies majors, who often take lower-paid entry positions in nonprofits or need additional language training before securing better roles. The real question is whether your student is prepared for that lean first year—$28,140 means living with roommates and budgeting carefully—and whether they have the patience and flexibility for the career trajectory this degree typically demands.

For families prioritizing financial security, this isn't the safest choice. But if your student is genuinely committed to international work and understands they're playing a longer game, Iowa delivers solid in-state value. Just know that unlike more vocational degrees, the payoff here depends heavily on your student's hustle, language skills, and willingness to pursue internships and connections aggressively during college.