Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Where California State University-Northridge Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all area studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How California State University-Northridge graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Area Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (39 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 California State University-NorthridgeNorthridge | $7,095 | $26,793 | — | $16,036* | — |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $50,728 | $77,557 | $14,972* | 0.30 |
 University of California-IrvineIrvine | $14,237 | $30,897 | — | —* | — |
 California State University-FullertonFullerton | $7,073 | $29,316 | $47,728 | $17,500* | 0.60 |
 California State University-Long BeachLong Beach | $7,008 | $28,591 | $51,163 | $15,697* | 0.55 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $23,819 | $55,626 | $17,746* | 0.75 |
| National Median | — | $34,211 | — | $20,552* | 0.60 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with area studies graduates
Explore Related Programs
Area Studies in California
- University of California-Berkeley$50,728
- University of California-Irvine$30,897
- California State University-Fullerton$29,316
- California State University-Long Beach$28,591
- University of California-Los Angeles$23,819
Explore further
- All Programs examining the history, culture, and experiences of specific regions, ethnic groups, or cultural communities. Includes African American studies, Latin American studies, and Asian studies. programs nationwide
- All programs at California State University-Northridge
- College programs in California
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At California State University-Northridge, approximately 56% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 16 graduates with reported earnings and 15 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.