Analysis
International Business programs in Michigan cluster around $59,000 in first-year earnings, and UM-Flint appears positioned right in that range—essentially matching outcomes at Wayne State and Grand Valley State. With estimated debt of $24,397, graduates would face monthly payments around $270, manageable on a salary approaching $60,000. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests reasonable financial footing, though it's worth noting these figures come from comparable Michigan programs rather than UM-Flint's specific track record.
What makes this estimate more credible is the four-year earnings figure of $59,002—actual reported data showing minimal salary growth between years one and four. This suggests the initial estimate is realistic and that International Business graduates hit their earnings ceiling quickly. That plateau matters for long-term financial planning, especially if you're comparing this to fields where mid-career growth compensates for higher starting debt.
The practical takeaway: if your student is committed to International Business and wants to stay in Michigan, these estimated numbers suggest a workable financial picture at UM-Flint. The debt load won't be crushing, and starting salaries should support loan repayment. However, the flat earnings trajectory means what they earn initially is likely what they'll earn for years to come, so that $59,000 needs to align with their lifestyle expectations and career goals.
Where University of Michigan-Flint Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all international business bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan-Flint | — | $59,002 | — |
| George Washington University | $70,856 | $101,930 | +44% |
| Georgetown University | $81,800 | $101,821 | +24% |
| Wayne State University | $59,350 | $72,684 | +22% |
| Grand Valley State University | $58,746 | $72,435 | +23% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,014 | $58,746* | $59,002 | $24,397* | — | |
| $14,297 | $59,350* | $72,684 | $23,472* | 0.40 | |
| $14,628 | $58,746* | $72,435 | $24,397* | 0.42 | |
| $15,510 | $31,476* | — | $25,330* | 0.80 | |
| National Median | — | $49,890* | — | $23,472* | 0.47 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with international business graduates
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Business Operations Specialists, All Other
Business Continuity Planners
Sustainability Specialists
Online Merchants
Security Management Specialists
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 Michigan-Flint, approximately 35% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.