International/Global Studies at University of Utah

The University of Utah's International/Global Studies program demonstrates an unusual strength: graduates who start modestly end up significantly outpacing their peers. First-year earnings of $36,883 beat the national median by 12%, but by year four that gap widens dramatically—$56,942 represents a 54% jump and positions graduates well ahead of typical outcomes for this major. For context, this isn't normally a high-paying field (the national median sits below $33,000), so Utah's ability to create a trajectory toward solid middle-class earnings is noteworthy.

The debt picture reinforces the value proposition. At $25,611, graduates borrow slightly above the national median, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69, they're looking at manageable repayment from day one. That ratio improves substantially as earnings climb through year four. The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Utah's limited offerings (only two schools offer this major in-state), while maintaining competitive standing nationally.

For parents concerned about International Studies leading to vague career prospects, this data tells a different story. The steep earnings growth suggests graduates are converting their degrees into concrete opportunities—likely in Utah's growing tech sector, federal agencies, or international business roles. With relatively low debt and strong earning potential by the mid-career mark, this program offers better financial positioning than most alternatives in this field.