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Best Value International/Global Studies Colleges in North Carolina

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Western Carolina University stands out as North Carolina's most affordable International/Global Studies option at just $12,579 net cost, while graduates from UNC Wilmington command the highest salaries at $33,993 annually. The state's 12 programs span from mountain campuses to coastal universities, with public institutions offering significantly better value than private alternatives. North Carolina's position in global banking through Charlotte's financial district and the Research Triangle's international tech companies creates strong career pathways for graduates. The earnings gap between top and bottom performers reaches $8,799, making school selection critical for return on investment.
12
Programs
$12,579 – $41,048
Net Price Range
$28,161
Avg. Program Earnings
63.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

12 International/Global Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $12,579 $29,685 $4,532 59.1% 84.8%
2 $19,472 $33,993 $7,317 70.7% 68.8%
3 $14,745 $25,194 $7,214 67.7% 79.6%
4 $16,487 $26,739 $7,541 73.1% 83.1%
5 $16,931 $25,194 $8,895 84.6% 47.2%
6 $16,514 $7,361 62.1% 92.3%
7 $41,048 $44,536 83.0% 74.5%
8 $24,137 $33,450 61.7% 75.0%
9 $21,200 $41,140 47.7% 83.5%
10 $20,197 $43,936 65.0% 73.2%
11 $21,728 $33,150 44.3% 63.2%
12 $23,719 $40,290 43.2% 84.0%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Western Carolina University such good value for International Studies?

Western Carolina offers the lowest net cost at $12,579 with graduates earning $29,685, creating one of the best cost-to-earnings ratios in the state. The 59.10% graduation rate, while modest, still delivers solid outcomes for students paying less than half what private colleges charge.

How do public universities compare to private ones for program value?

Public universities average around $16,000 in net costs compared to private institutions ranging from $20,197 to $41,048. UNC Wilmington graduates earn $33,993 while most private school graduates earn less, making public options the clear value winners.

Is North Carolina State University worth the competitive admissions?

NC State accepts only 47.17% of applicants but delivers an 84.60% graduation rate, the highest among public options. However, graduates earn just $25,194, making it less valuable than UNC Wilmington despite the selectivity.

Where do International Studies graduates find jobs in North Carolina?

Charlotte's banking sector and the Research Triangle's international corporations provide strong opportunities for graduates. The state's ports in Wilmington and growing global trade connections create additional pathways in logistics and international business.

More International/Global Studies Rankings

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.