Communication Disorders Sciences and Services at California State University-Northridge

Cal State Northridge's Communication Disorders program produces remarkably strong outcomes once graduates gain experience, though the first year requires patience. While initial earnings of $22,310 fall below both state and national medians, within four years graduates are earning $57,193—more than double California's median for this field and far exceeding the national benchmark. This dramatic 156% jump signals a program that effectively prepares students for career advancement in speech-language pathology support roles and related positions.

The relatively modest $15,356 in student debt makes this trajectory feasible. That's about $2,600 below California's median for this field and represents one of the lowest debt loads among state programs. The 0.69 debt-to-first-year-earnings ratio matters less than the fact that earnings more than triple that debt within just four years. For a program serving a majority-Pell-eligible student body, this combination of low debt and strong eventual earnings is significant.

The catch is that first year: graduates likely work as aides or support staff while many pursue the master's degree needed for full speech-language pathologist licensure. If your child plans to continue to graduate school, this program provides solid undergraduate preparation at a manageable price. If they're planning to stop at the bachelor's level, understand that career growth will take time but the financial foundation—low debt paired with strong earning potential—supports that path.