International/Global Studies at University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky's International Studies program produces unusually weak first-year outcomes—$26,104 puts it in just the 12th percentile nationally among similar programs. That's $6,700 below the national median and even trails the Kentucky state median by $4,600. While the program carries slightly higher debt than typical ($25,368 versus $22,000 nationally), the real concern is that initial earning power, which translates to a difficult first year managing payments on an entry-level salary.

The program does show meaningful recovery, with earnings jumping 79% to $46,631 by year four. This suggests graduates eventually find their footing, possibly after gaining experience or pivoting to adjacent fields. However, that first year matters enormously for recent graduates juggling loan payments and living expenses. Within Kentucky, this program ranks in just the 25th percentile—for comparison, Centre College's International Studies graduates start at $35,367, a 35% premium that compounds over time.

For families considering this path, the question is whether your child has a clear plan for that challenging first year after graduation. International Studies can be a springboard to careers in diplomacy, international business, or nonprofits, but it often requires additional credentials or strategic networking. If your student is passionate about global affairs and willing to invest in graduate school or targeted internships, this could work. But as a standalone bachelor's degree banking on immediate financial return, the numbers suggest exploring other options at UK or comparing outcomes at Kentucky's higher-performing programs.