Median Earnings (1yr)
$63,350
95th percentile
Median Debt
$22,000
7% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35
Manageable
Sample Size
40
Adequate data

Analysis

Pitt's international business certificate stands out nationally but tells a more nuanced story within Pennsylvania. With first-year earnings of $63,350, graduates land in the 95th percentile compared to similar programs nationwide—impressive performance that substantially exceeds the national median of $61,495. However, the 60th percentile ranking among Pennsylvania's three programs suggests this certificate isn't necessarily the strongest option in-state, though the small number of competitors makes direct comparisons limited.

The financial fundamentals work solidly in students' favor. A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 means graduates owe roughly four months of salary—manageable by any standard. More encouraging is the 19% earnings jump by year four, reaching $75,445, which indicates real career progression rather than a credential that merely opens doors to entry-level work. At $22,000 in median debt, students are borrowing slightly less than the national average for this certificate.

This certificate makes particular sense as a complement to another degree at Pitt rather than a standalone pursuit. The earnings trajectory and debt load suggest good value, especially for students already committed to the university who want to add international business credentials without significantly extending their time to graduation. The strong national showing provides reassurance, even if Pennsylvania's limited comparison pool leaves some questions about regional positioning unanswered.

Where University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all international business certificate's programs nationally

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusOther international business programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus graduates earn $63k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all international business certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania

International Business certificate's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (3 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus$63,350$75,445$22,0000.35
National Median$61,495—$23,7040.39

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 Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, approximately 14% 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 40 graduates with reported earnings and 38 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.