International Studiesat Washington University in St Louis
Graduates earn $38,854/yr in their first year — about 11.0% above the national International Studies average. Base-case 10-year earnings $469K; scenarios range from $447K to $468K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at Washington University in St Louis
WashU's strong reputation significantly enhances outcomes for this interdisciplinary field. Your degree here signifies rigorous training in global dynamics, often leading to competitive roles in policy analysis, international development, or research. The university's robust academic environment and extensive alumni network are crucial for securing positions, even if St. Louis isn't a primary hub for these careers. Graduates frequently leverage their WashU connections for opportunities in Washington D.C., New York, or abroad, with many pursuing advanced degrees to specialize. While the field is broad and some tasks may see AI augmentation, your critical thinking and cross-cultural communication skills are highly valued. Actively pursue internships and develop strong foreign language proficiency to maximize your unique market advantage.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to Washington University in St Louis's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering International Studies
How Washington University in St Louis stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at Washington University in St Louis
Other highest-scoring programs offered at Washington University in St Louis, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in International Studies offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare International Studies trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about International Studies at Washington University in St Louis
How does Washington University in St Louis's International Studies program score?
This program scores 27/100 — on the lower end for International Studies. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
How affordable is International Studies at Washington University in St Louis after financial aid?
Sticker price is $251,928, but the average net cost is $88,468 — a 65% discount. For students who qualify for aid, this program is considerably more affordable than it appears.