International/Globalization Studies.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Debt-to-income analysis for International/Globalization Studies.: The DTI for this program is 63.4%, which is within the generally accepted range for higher education. While not as low as some top-performing degrees, this ratio suggests that most graduates can manage their student loan payments, especially if they secure employment in related fields. If you are considering International/Globalization Studies., compare your expected starting salary (currently $34306) to the average debt ($21735) to ensure it fits your financial goals in .
Degrees with a DTI between 0.5 and 0.8 are common, but it's wise to plan your budget and consider loan repayment options.
Important financial note for International/Globalization Studies.: The debt-to-income ratio for this program is 63.4%, which is above the recommended maximum of 80%. This means that, on average, graduates may need to dedicate a significant portion of their first-year earnings to student loan payments. If you are considering International/Globalization Studies., be sure to weigh the average starting salary ($34306) against the typical student debt ($21735), and explore scholarships, grants, or alternative funding sources to reduce your financial burden in and beyond.
Key Insights
International/Globalization Studies. is a program that attracts motivated students who want to make an impact. Starting pay for new grads is typically $34306, and with an average debt of $21735, the debt-to-income ratio comes in at 0.63—which is about average for college grads.
This program sees about 6458 graduates annually, so you’ll be joining a well-established network. Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job, a stable career, or a chance to make an impact, International/Globalization Studies. is a great foundation. Remember, your journey is shaped by the opportunities you pursue—so get involved and stay curious!
Degree Overview
International / Globalization Studies (CIP 30.2001) is an interdisciplinary field focused on how countries, cultures, economies, and people are increasingly interconnected in a globalized world. It examines the forces that shape international relationships—such as trade, migration, technology, politics, culture, and environmental change—and how those forces affect societies at local, national, and global levels. This degree is designed for students who want to understand the big picture of how the world works and how global systems influence everyday life.
For a degree search site, International or Globalization Studies appeals to students who are globally minded, culturally curious, and interested in solving cross-border problems. It is especially relevant for careers in international business, diplomacy, public policy, development, nonprofit work, global communications, and multinational organizations. Rather than focusing on a single country or discipline, this program emphasizes systems-level thinking, cultural awareness, and global competence.
What Is an International / Globalization Studies Degree?
An International or Globalization Studies degree is an interdisciplinary program that examines global processes and relationships. Students study how economic systems, political institutions, cultural exchange, and technological innovation operate across borders. The focus is not only on international relations between governments, but also on how globalization affects communities, identities, labor, inequality, and the environment.
Universities offer this degree to:
- Prepare students to understand and navigate global systems and international challenges
- Develop strong cross-cultural communication and analytical skills
- Train professionals for globally oriented careers in public and private sectors
- Provide a foundation for graduate study in international affairs, law, policy, or development
Programs often allow students to choose regional concentrations (such as Asia, Europe, Africa, or Latin America) or thematic focuses (such as global economics, human rights, or sustainability).
What Will You Learn?
Students learn how globalization shapes politics, economies, cultures, and social structures worldwide. You’ll develop the ability to analyze global issues from multiple perspectives and understand how local actions connect to global outcomes.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates typically develop skills such as:
- Global analysis—understanding international systems and cross-border dynamics
- Cultural competence—working effectively across cultures and social contexts
- Research and synthesis—integrating political, economic, and cultural data
- Critical thinking—evaluating global narratives, policies, and power structures
- Written and oral communication—explaining complex global issues clearly
- Policy literacy—understanding international laws, agreements, and institutions
- Language awareness—often supported through foreign language study
- Problem-solving—addressing global challenges with interdisciplinary approaches
These skills are highly transferable in internationally oriented careers.
Topics You May Explore
Coursework varies by institution, but commonly includes:
- Globalization Theory: economic, political, and cultural globalization
- International Relations: diplomacy, conflict, and cooperation between states
- Global Economics and Trade: markets, development, and inequality
- Comparative Politics: political systems across countries
- Global Culture and Identity: migration, media, and cultural exchange
- Human Rights and Global Justice: ethics, law, and advocacy
- International Development: poverty reduction and sustainable growth
- Global Environmental Issues: climate change and transnational solutions
- Regional Studies: focused study of specific world regions
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
An International / Globalization Studies degree prepares students for a wide range of globally focused roles. Many graduates enter the workforce directly, while others pursue graduate or professional education.
Common career paths include:
- International Program Coordinator: managing global initiatives or partnerships
- Policy or Research Analyst: analyzing international issues and trends
- Nonprofit or NGO Associate: working on global development or humanitarian projects
- International Business or Trade Assistant: supporting global operations
- Public Affairs or Advocacy Specialist: working on global policy issues
- Global Communications or Marketing Coordinator: managing cross-border messaging
- Government or Diplomatic Support Roles: assisting in foreign service or international agencies
- Graduate or Professional School Path: preparing for international affairs, law, or policy careers
Where Can You Work?
Graduates work in organizations that operate across borders or deal with global issues:
- International organizations and NGOs
- Government agencies and foreign service offices
- Multinational corporations
- Policy institutes and think tanks
- Global marketing and communications firms
- Universities and research centers
- Humanitarian and development organizations
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary widely depending on sector, role, location, and education level.
Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level international or nonprofit roles: often $40,000–$55,000
- Policy, research, or program analysts: commonly $55,000–$85,000
- Corporate global roles: often $65,000–$100,000+
- Senior or specialized professionals: can exceed $100,000 with experience
Advanced degrees often improve earning potential and access to leadership roles.
Is This Degree Hard?
International / Globalization Studies is considered moderately challenging. It emphasizes reading, writing, research, and analytical thinking rather than advanced math or lab work. Students must be comfortable engaging with complex global issues, differing perspectives, and sometimes ambiguous solutions.
The challenge lies in synthesizing information from multiple disciplines and applying it to real-world global problems.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Are interested in global issues and international affairs
- Enjoy learning about different cultures and societies
- Want a career with international or cross-cultural focus
- Like analyzing political, economic, and social systems
- Are considering work in policy, business, nonprofits, or diplomacy
- Value adaptability and broad perspectives
How to Prepare in High School
To prepare for an international or globalization studies program:
- Take history, geography, economics, and social studies courses
- Study a foreign language if available
- Develop strong writing and research skills
- Follow global news and international events
- Participate in Model UN, debate, or global studies clubs
International / Globalization Studies (CIP 30.2001) is a future-oriented degree for students who want to understand an interconnected world. It prepares graduates to think globally, act thoughtfully, and contribute meaningfully to organizations and communities operating across borders.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
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