International Business at University of Nevada-Las Vegas

UNLV's International Business program shows a troubling pattern that should concern parents: graduates earn just $27,376 one year out—ranking in the 5th percentile nationally and trailing Nevada's only other program by nearly $8,000. Even within Nevada's limited market, where only two schools offer this degree, UNLV falls well below the state median. That first-year figure is barely above minimum wage for full-time work in Las Vegas, raising serious questions about whether graduates are landing jobs that require a bachelor's degree at all.

The 96% earnings jump to $54,000 by year four suggests many graduates eventually find their footing, ultimately surpassing both state and national medians. However, this delayed launch matters. Three years of depressed earnings early in a career means delayed savings, retirement contributions, and major life milestones. The $19,000 debt load is manageable compared to national averages, but even modest debt becomes burdensome when you're earning $27,000.

For families considering this program, the core question is whether the eventual outcome justifies such a rocky start. University of Nevada-Reno's graduates earn 57% more in their first year with the same degree, suggesting UNLV's career services or employer connections may be weaker. Unless your child has compelling reasons to attend UNLV specifically—strong family ties to Las Vegas employers, for instance—the data points toward exploring alternatives that offer better immediate job placement.