Compare 8 Public Administration. programs in California. Average earnings: $59,343.
The highest-earning Public Administration program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $28K earnings gap across 8 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
California State University-Northridge's Public Administration program leads with graduates earning $76,049—nearly $17K above the state average of $59,343. California Baptist University follows at $69,338, while University of La Verne rounds out the top three at $63,388, proving that focused programs can outperform regardless of overall school reputation.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Cal State Northridge graduates borrow $13,872 and face just a 3.6% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their post-grad income, making it the clear best value choice.
Highest program earnings: $76,049
Strong outcomes with 93% acceptance
3.6% payment burden | Excellent
7.5% family burden | Excellent
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $76,049 | 41 | $13,872 | Excellent | $13,522 | Excellent | |
| #2 | $69,338 | 17 | $26,063 | Excellent | $31,387 | Challenging | |
| #3 | University Of La VernePrivate | $63,388 | 25 | $23,500 | Excellent | $27,977 | Challenging |
| #4 | $58,104 | 42 | $13,807 | Excellent | $11,061 | Good | |
| #5 | $57,169 | 40 | $13,750 | Excellent | $16,538 | Manageable | |
| #6 | $54,809 | 8 | $16,600 | Excellent | $9,000 | Good | |
| #7 | $48,377 | 13 | $16,552 | Good | $17,585 | Challenging | |
| #8 | $47,513 | 98 | $15,000 | Good | $25,565 | 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 →
