International Studies at University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree · International/Global Studies
26 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
26
Optimistic
26
Base Case
30
Pessimistic
Earnings $21,830/yr (-37% vs median)
AI Risk Moderate (24% exposed)
Job Market Very Small (2,000 openings/yr)
ROI 17.9x earnings multiple (5.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #50 of 81 International/Global Studies programs

Program Analysis

The financial outcomes for International/Global Studies at UNCW reflect the program's context within a regional market, not a major international hub. While offering a robust foundational understanding of global dynamics, this degree often leads to generalist roles initially, particularly if you remain in the Wilmington area where international-focused opportunities are less prevalent and typically found in non-profits, local government, or education. Your career trajectory will depend heavily on how you specialize. Without a clear focus—like a specific language proficiency paired with business, data analytics, or a technical skill—graduates often enter fields where the international aspect is a bonus, not the core requirement for higher compensation. To truly leverage this degree for more competitive international roles, you'll need to actively seek internships and networking opportunities in major metropolitan centers or consider immediate graduate studies to specialize and differentiate your profile.

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 $526K $524K $496K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 18.0x 17.9x 16.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.7x 5.7x 5.4x
Probability of Field Employment 53% 50% 45%
DegreeOutlook Score 26 26 30

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$29,268
Out-of-state: $91,940 (5.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$77,888
-166% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,500
9.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$44,663
105% growth from Year 1

About University of North Carolina Wilmington

University of North Carolina Wilmington has a 74% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 14,176 students in Wilmington, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at University of North Carolina Wilmington →

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

Other Majors at University of North Carolina Wilmington

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 26/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for International Studies at University of North Carolina Wilmington?
At 26/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring International Studies programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Is University of North Carolina Wilmington a good choice for International Studies despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of North Carolina Wilmington'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 →