Compare 5 Food Science. programs in California. Average earnings: $62,239.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Food Science tells a different story. Across 5 programs, earnings range from $52,806 to $73,350—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo's Food Science program leads with graduates earning $73,350, well above the $62,239 average. UC Davis follows at $65,196, while Cal Poly Pomona reaches $62,994—proving that program-specific factors drive outcomes more than institutional prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. UC Davis graduates borrow $13,000 and face just a 4.2% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. Cal Poly Pomona offers the best family value with an 11.3% family burden, showing that the smartest choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $73,350
Strong outcomes with 74% acceptance
4.2% payment burden | Excellent
11.3% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $73,350 | 97 | $18,500 | Excellent | $35,000 | Manageable | |
| #2 | $65,196 | 118 | $13,000 | Excellent | $25,733 | Manageable | |
| #3 | $62,994 | 30 | $16,000 | Excellent | $15,000 | Good | |
| #4 | $56,851 | 80 | $14,505 | Excellent | $12,050 | Good | |
| #5 | $52,806 | 15 | $13,000 | Excellent | $12,526 | Manageable |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
