Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at California State University-Sacramento

Sacramento State's engineering program starts graduates below most California competitors but shows something more important: strong upward mobility. With first-year earnings of $74,450 climbing to $95,564 by year four—a 28% jump—graduates appear to find their footing in the market after gaining some experience. The $19,430 median debt is notably lower than both state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio that works decidedly in graduates' favor.

That said, this program sits in the middle of California's pack (40th percentile), and the gap with top state programs is substantial. UC Berkeley grads earn nearly double in their first year, while even Cal Poly SLO starts 22% higher. Given Sacramento State's 94% admission rate and the fact that half its students qualify for Pell grants, these students aren't competing for the same opportunities as Berkeley engineers—but they're still entering a field with solid long-term prospects and manageable debt.

For families watching their budget, the value equation here is straightforward: lower entry barriers, minimal debt burden, and reliable career progression in a field that rewards experience. Your child won't land at a top tech firm immediately, but they'll build toward a six-figure salary without the financial stress that buries many graduates.