Compare 5 Industrial Engineering. programs in California. Average earnings: $93,340.
Industrial Engineering programs produce graduates earning between $80,644 and $114,688—a $34K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 5 ranked programs in California, outcomes vary based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
University of Southern California's Industrial Engineering program leads with graduates earning $114,688, well above the state average of $93,340. But Cal Poly San Luis Obispo follows closely at $103,886 with nearly triple the acceptance rate (30% vs 10%), proving accessible programs can deliver strong outcomes.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. USC graduates borrow $18,000 and face just a 2.7% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families, Cal Poly Pomona leads with a 7.2% family burden, keeping loan payments minimal for both students and parents.
Highest program earnings: $114,688
Strong outcomes ($86,122) with 74% acceptance
2.7% payment burden | Excellent
7.2% family burden | Excellent
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $114,688 | 54 | $18,000 | Excellent | $31,803 | Good | |
| #2 | $103,886 | 96 | $18,500 | Excellent | $35,000 | Good | |
| #3 | $86,122 | 71 | $16,000 | Excellent | $15,000 | Excellent | |
| #4 | $81,358 | 61 | $15,000 | Excellent | $20,820 | Good | |
| #5 | University Of San DiegoPrivate | $80,644 | 36 | $22,940 | Excellent | $56,559 | Challenging |
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 →
