International Business at Washburn University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 suggests this program could work financially, though the numbers come with significant uncertainty. Based on national patterns across similar International Business bachelor's programs, graduates might expect around $49,890 in first-year earnings against roughly $21,500 in debt—manageable by most standards. However, there's reason for caution: the single Kansas school with reported data (Wichita State) shows considerably lower earnings at $38,801, which would push that debt ratio above 0.55 and into less comfortable territory.

The challenge here is that without actual outcomes from Washburn itself, you're essentially betting on whether this program performs more like the national average or more like its Kansas peer. International Business programs vary enormously based on factors like recruiting relationships, internship networks, and regional employer demand—details that matter more than the degree title itself. The national estimates provide a ceiling for what's possible, but Wichita State's reported figure suggests Kansas graduates may face a tougher market.

Before committing, push Washburn's career services office for concrete placement data: where do their International Business graduates actually land jobs, and what are they earning? If they can't provide specifics beyond the generic national estimates, that's telling. The debt load isn't alarming on its face, but you need confidence the earnings will materialize to justify it.