Geography and Cartography at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Cal Poly Pomona's geography program shows graduates starting at $35,426 but reaching $52,882 within four years—a 49% jump that's substantial for this field. While first-year earnings lag the national median, by year four these graduates are outpacing what most geography programs achieve anywhere in the country. Among California's 22 geography programs, this one lands at the 60th percentile despite serving a largely working-class student body (46% receive Pell grants). The debt load of $15,826 is notably lower than the $22,657 national median, creating a manageable 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio even in that modest first year.

The catch here is the small graduating class—fewer than 30 students means a single graduate's unusual success or struggle could swing these numbers. That said, the earnings trajectory suggests the program provides skills that become more valuable with experience, which is typical for GIS and spatial analysis roles where employers prize practical expertise. Sacramento State produces higher-earning graduates ($48,227 early on), but Cal Poly Pomona's combination of low debt and strong growth makes it competitive for families concerned about affordability.

For parents of students genuinely interested in mapping, urban planning, or environmental analysis, this represents reasonable value—just understand you're investing in a career that takes a few years to gain momentum rather than commanding strong starting salaries.