Median Earnings (1yr)
$38,801
13th percentile (60th in KS)
Median Debt
$17,399
26% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.45
Manageable
Sample Size
16
Limited data

Analysis

Wichita State's International Business program initially places graduates well below the national median at $38,801—landing in just the 13th percentile nationally. However, the story gets more interesting when you look at Kansas specifically: this program sits at the 60th percentile among in-state options, and graduates carry notably less debt ($17,399 versus $23,472 nationally). The small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures could shift significantly year to year, but the current data shows a program that delivers average value for Kansas while falling short of what top international business programs produce nationally.

The dramatic 63% earnings jump by year four brings median pay to $63,327, which actually surpasses the national benchmark. This suggests graduates may start in entry-level positions but advance relatively quickly, which is common in international business careers that require time to build specialized experience and networks. The debt load remains manageable throughout, with a first-year ratio of 0.45 that improves substantially as earnings climb.

For Kansas families prioritizing affordability, this program offers decent value—especially if your child plans to stay in-state where the credentials appear competitive. But if they're aiming for opportunities in major international business hubs or comparing against stronger national programs, understand they'll likely start behind peers from higher-ranked schools. The small cohort size is a legitimate concern for data reliability, so verify current placement outcomes directly with the university before committing.

Where Wichita State University Stands

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

Wichita State UniversityOther 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 Wichita State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Wichita State University graduates earn $39k, placing them in the 13th percentile of all international business bachelors 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 Kansas

International Business bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (8 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Wichita State University$38,801$63,327$17,3990.45
National Median$49,890—$23,4720.47

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 Wichita State University, approximately 30% 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 16 graduates with reported earnings and 23 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.