Business/Managerial Economics at California State University-Long Beach

CSU-Long Beach graduates in Business/Managerial Economics start slow but catch up fast. That first-year salary of $39,000 lands in just the 5th percentile nationally—significantly below both the national median ($53,000) and California's typical outcome ($54,000). However, by year four, earnings jump 55% to reach $61,000, essentially matching what top-tier programs deliver right out of the gate.

The debt picture offers some reassurance: $18,300 is below both state and national averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio even with those weaker starting salaries. Nearly half the student body receives Pell grants, suggesting this pathway serves students who need affordable access to business education. That said, ranking in the 25th percentile among California's 18 programs means three-quarters of similar programs produce better initial outcomes, and students should understand they're trading early earning potential for lower debt.

The fundamental question is whether your child can weather those first few years. If they need strong immediate earnings to start repaying debt or supporting themselves, programs like UC Davis or Chapman deliver $54,000+ from day one. But if they can manage on $39,000 initially—perhaps living at home or with family support—the trajectory becomes competitive by year four, and they'll have done it with $4,000 less debt than the national average.