Students at California State University-Stanislaus benefit from one of the most affordable pathways to strong long-term earnings in public higher education, with exceptionally low net prices that don't compromise financial outcomes.
The university's combination of broad access and proven economic mobility makes it a standout choice for first-generation and low-income students seeking reliable career advancement.
California State University-Stanislaus ranks among the top public universities nationwide for combining exceptional access with strong economic outcomes. As a designated "Mobility Engine," the university serves a predominantly first-generation and low-income student population while delivering earnings that place it in the 76th percentile nationally. More than half of students receive Pell Grants, and nearly 60% are first-generation college students, yet graduates earn a median of $63,188 ten years after enrollment.
What makes Cal State Stanislaus particularly compelling is its affordability structure. Low-income students pay just $3,218 annually in net price, ranking in the top 3% nationally for affordability, while middle-income families pay around $6,347. This combination of broad access and low cost doesn't come at the expense of outcomes—graduates consistently earn more than expected compared with similar students at other institutions, with an earnings advantage of over $18,000.
Located in California's Central Valley, the university offers the practical benefits of a regional public institution with the financial outcomes typically associated with more selective schools. For families seeking a reliable path to economic mobility without overwhelming debt, Cal State Stanislaus represents one of the strongest value propositions in public higher education.
California State University-Stanislaus offers a diverse program portfolio that balances accessibility with strong career outcomes. Business Administration leads in both enrollment and aggregate economic impact, graduating 412 students annually with solid mid-career earnings around $39,205. The program's large scale creates substantial alumni networks and employer relationships throughout California's Central Valley and beyond.
Nursing represents the university's highest-earning program, with Adult Health Nursing graduates earning $99,447—among the strongest outcomes available at any public university. This reflects both the high demand for healthcare professionals in California and the quality of the university's nursing preparation. Psychology, while showing more modest earnings at $28,055, remains popular with 373 graduates and provides strong preparation for graduate school or human services careers.
The university's program mix reflects its regional mission and student needs, emphasizing practical, career-focused fields that lead directly to employment. Business, healthcare, education, and social services programs dominate the offerings, aligning well with Central Valley employment opportunities while providing pathways to broader California job markets. This focus on professionally oriented programs helps explain the university's strong overall earnings performance despite serving a predominantly first-generation student population.
California State University-Stanislaus delivers strong long-term financial outcomes for graduates. Ten years after enrollment, students earn a median of $63,188, placing the university in the 76th percentile nationally for earnings. Perhaps more impressive is the university's earnings beyond expectations performance—graduates earn approximately $18,121 more than similar students at other institutions, reflecting one of the strongest earnings advantages among public universities.
Program-level outcomes vary significantly by field of study. Business Administration, the university's largest program with 412 graduates, produces solid mid-career earnings around $39,205 and represents the highest aggregate return due to its scale. Adult Health Nursing stands out with exceptional earnings of $99,447, making it one of the highest-paying programs available. Psychology, while popular with 373 graduates, shows more modest earnings at $28,055, typical for the field but still contributing to the university's overall strong performance.
The university's location in California's Central Valley provides graduates access to diverse employment markets while benefiting from the state's generally strong wage levels. With nearly 2,000 graduates earning over $75,000 annually, Cal State Stanislaus demonstrates consistent ability to prepare students for well-paying careers across multiple fields, particularly in business, healthcare, and professional services.
California State University-Stanislaus stands out as one of the most affordable public universities in the nation. Low-income students pay an average net price of just $3,218 per year, ranking in the top 3% nationally for affordability. Middle-income families see annual costs around $6,347, while even high-income families pay a reasonable $16,815—all figures that represent exceptional value for a four-year degree.
Debt levels remain manageable for most graduates. Typical students leave with about $13,540 in federal student loan debt, a modest amount that aligns well with the university's strong earnings outcomes. Parent PLUS borrowing averages $12,000, reflecting the university's success in keeping family borrowing to reasonable levels. With graduates earning a median of $63,188 ten years out, most borrowers can comfortably handle standard repayment schedules without financial strain.
The university's affordability advantage extends beyond sticker price to long-term financial sustainability. The combination of low net prices, manageable debt levels, and strong post-graduation earnings creates a particularly favorable financial equation for students and families. This makes Cal State Stanislaus an especially attractive option for cost-conscious families who still want assurance of strong long-term returns on their educational investment.
California State University-Stanislaus Hub Overview
Executive summary with admissions, cost, outcomes, and program analysis
