Business Administration, Management and Operations at California State University-San Bernardino

Cal State San Bernardino's business graduates earn roughly $9,000 less than the typical California business major, landing in the bottom quarter of both state and national rankings. While the debt load of $13,500 is admirably low—among the best 5% nationally—the starting salary of $40,817 means these graduates are making about what the average American worker earns, despite holding a four-year degree in one of the most popular majors.

The growth trajectory offers some reassurance: earnings climb to $48,198 by year four, representing solid 18% growth. That still trails the state median, though, and the gap between Cal State San Bernardino and higher-ranked California programs is substantial. Business grads from UC Berkeley, for instance, start at more than double these earnings. The school serves a predominantly working-class population (57% receive Pell grants), and the minimal debt means graduates aren't burdened with payments that would strain already-modest salaries.

For families considering this program, the calculus is straightforward: you're getting an affordable credential that leads to steady, if unspectacular, middle-income earnings. If your child needs to stay local and keep costs down, that debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 is manageable. But if they can access more selective California business programs—particularly the Cal Polys or UCs—the earnings premium would likely justify any additional investment.