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International/Global Studies at University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $26,104/yr (-25% vs median)

AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)

Job Market Very Small (2,000 openings/yr)

ROI 10.8x earnings multiple (4.3x out-of-state)

Ranked #53 of 81 International/Global Studies programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to International/Global Studies graduates.

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$576K	$572K	$539K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	10.9x	10.8x	10.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	4.3x	4.3x	4.0x
Probability of Field Employment	53%	50%	45%
DegreeOutlook Score	25	25	32

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$52,848

Out-of-state: $133,624 (4.3x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$68,872

-30% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$24,550

11.3 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$52,705

102% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $26,104/yr fall 25% below the $34,873 national median for International/Global Studies. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 10.8x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some International/Global Studies career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $24,550 against $26,104/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #53 ranking among 81 International/Global Studies programs places University of Kentucky in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $26,104-to-$52,705 earnings arc over five years reflects a 102% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Kentucky

University of Kentucky has a 92% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, one of the larger campuses at 23,189 students in Lexington, KY.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Kentucky →

Top Career Paths

Political scientists $139,380/yr

Social sciences teachers, postsecondary, all other $75,040/yr

View all 2 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

International/Global Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at University of Kentucky

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 25/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International/Global Studies at University of Kentucky?

At 25/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring International/Global Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Is University of Kentucky a good choice for International/Global Studies despite lower starting pay?

Starting salary is one data point. If University of Kentucky's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.

Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →