International Studies at St Lawrence University

Canton, NY · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · International/Global Studies
10 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
11
Optimistic
10
Base Case
17
Pessimistic
Earnings $26,016/yr (-25% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market Very Small (2,000 openings/yr)
ROI 2.1x earnings multiple
Ranked #80 of 81 International/Global Studies programs

Program Analysis

The data here suggests a unique challenge for International/Global Studies graduates from St. Lawrence. While this field often leads to dynamic careers, the regional labor market around Canton, NY, isn't a major hub for the international organizations, NGOs, or global corporations that typically recruit for these roles. This geographical disconnect means you might face an uphill battle finding direct entry into the most competitive or highest-paying positions locally, potentially requiring relocation for initial opportunities. A broad liberal arts degree in this field, while fostering critical thinking, might also mean you'll need to proactively build highly specialized, applied skills (like advanced data analysis, specific regional language fluency, or project management in a global context) to stand out. Many graduates find initial roles in education or non-profits before transitioning. If you pursue this path, prioritize extensive internships far from campus and aggressively network to establish pipelines to employers in major metropolitan centers or abroad.

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $527K $525K $497K
Earnings Multiple 2.1x 2.1x 1.9x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 50% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 11 10 17

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$255,480
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$122,244
52% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
12.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$47,281
82% growth from Year 1

About St Lawrence University

St Lawrence University accepts 58% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a smaller institution with 2,040 students in Canton, NY. After financial aid, the average student pays $122,244 over four years — 52% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at St Lawrence University →

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 Studies at Other Schools

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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 10/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Studies at St Lawrence University?
At 10/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring International Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a International Studies degree from St Lawrence University?
At $27,000 in median debt, graduates carry 12 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Is St Lawrence University a good choice for International Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If St Lawrence University's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
What do students actually pay for International Studies at St Lawrence University?
The 52% gap between sticker price and net cost means most students pay far less than $255,480. At a net cost of $122,244, the earnings multiple improves substantially.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →