Compare 6 Urban Studies/Affairs. programs in California. Average earnings: $58,768.
The highest-earning Urban Studies/Affairs program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $57K earnings gap across 6 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
University of California-Berkeley's Urban Studies/Affairs program leads with graduates earning $81,737. The average across all programs is $58,768, yet this UC program's dominance illustrates how specific departments can excel independently of broader school reputation. San Francisco State follows at $66,159, proving regional universities compete effectively.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. UC Berkeley graduates borrow $13,000 and face just a 3.0% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their post-grad income, making top outcomes genuinely affordable.
Highest program earnings: $81,737
Strong outcomes ($66,159) with 96% acceptance
3.0% payment burden | Excellent
9.9% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $81,737 | 34 | $13,000 | Excellent | $28,508 | Good | |
| #2 | $66,159 | 30 | $15,371 | Excellent | $19,732 | Good | |
| #3 | $65,845 | 45 | $15,500 | Excellent | $24,257 | Manageable | |
| #4 | $63,319 | 22 | $13,872 | Excellent | $13,522 | Good | |
| #5 | $51,127 | 57 | $15,000 | Excellent | $22,665 | Challenging | |
| #6 | Loyola Marymount UniversityPrivate | $24,421 | 12 | $19,500 | High | $58,361 | 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 →
