Program Analysis
Pepperdine University's International Studies graduates start at $36,920/yr — above the $34,873 national average, though not by a wide margin.
The financial case is thin at 2.1x — decade earnings barely exceed the cost of attendance. The value proposition here is driven by factors beyond pure ROI.
Some AI exposure exists in International Studies's typical career paths, with 24% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 6% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $25,722 represents roughly 8 months of the $36,920 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
Ranked #64 of 81 International Studies programs, Pepperdine University falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $58,137 show a 57% jump from the $36,920 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration.