Compare 10 Neuroscience. programs in California. Average earnings: $47,947.
The highest-earning Neuroscience program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $38K earnings gap across 10 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
UCLA's Neuroscience program leads with graduates earning $61,875, well above the $47,947 average. UC San Diego follows at $55,660, while University of San Diego delivers $56,690 despite higher admission rates—proving strong programs exist beyond the most selective schools.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. UCLA graduates borrow $14,000 and face just a 4.9% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families, Thomas Aquinas College leads with a 10.8% family burden, proving that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $61,875
Strong outcomes ($48,249) with 63% acceptance
4.9% payment burden | Excellent
10.8% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $61,875 | 180 | $14,000 | Excellent | $26,176 | Manageable | |
| #2 | University Of San DiegoPrivate | $56,690 | 76 | $22,940 | Good | $56,559 | High |
| #3 | $55,660 | 183 | $15,500 | Excellent | $24,257 | Manageable | |
| #4 | $51,750 | 406 | $13,000 | Excellent | $25,733 | Challenging | |
| #5 | $51,556 | 98 | $18,000 | Good | $31,803 | High | |
| #6 | $48,249 | 64 | $16,666 | Good | $28,682 | High | |
| #7 | Thomas Aquinas CollegePrivate | $45,450 | 27 | $18,000 | Good | $0 | Good |
| #8 | $44,237 | 111 | $17,500 | Good | $18,275 | Challenging | |
| #9 | Pomona CollegePrivate | $39,967 | 22 | $11,782 | Good | $27,861 | High |
| #10 | $24,035 | 51 | $15,000 | High | $22,665 | High |
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 →
