International/Global Studies at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

UW-Milwaukee's International Studies graduates start modestly but see impressive earnings momentum, nearly doubling their income within four years. That 53% earnings growth—from $31,433 to $48,024—suggests graduates are building marketable skills even if entry-level positions don't immediately reflect the degree's value. With debt of $26,738 and a manageable 0.85 debt-to-income ratio, the financial foundation is actually quite solid, especially compared to the field nationally where debt loads typically run lower.

Within Wisconsin, this program sits comfortably in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, though it lags significantly behind UW-Madison's stronger showing. What matters more for most families is the trajectory: International Studies majors from UWM aren't locked into low-wage careers. By year four, earnings approach $48,000, which compares reasonably well to the national 75th percentile ($38,854) for first-year graduates in this field.

The path here requires patience and strategic career building. Graduates likely need to leverage internships, language skills, or regional expertise to move beyond entry-level work. But for students committed to international affairs, global business, or related fields, the combination of reasonable debt, strong earnings growth, and UWM's accessible price point creates a workable investment—just set expectations for building experience rather than commanding strong early salaries.