Health and Medical Administrative Services at California State University-San Bernardino

Cal State San Bernardino graduates start below their peers—earning about $7,500 less than the California median in year one—but something shifts dramatically as they gain experience. By year four, earnings jump nearly 30% to $47,804, bringing graduates much closer to competitive range. Among California's 33 programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile for earnings, meaning three-quarters of state programs produce higher initial results. The debt picture offers some relief: at $16,300, graduates carry about half the national average and slightly less than California's typical burden. The 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio means these loans should be manageable even during that challenging first year.

The bigger question is why the initial earnings lag so significantly. Cal State San Bernardino serves a predominantly working-class student body (57% receive Pell grants), and graduates may be starting in entry-level administrative positions that pay less upfront but offer clearer advancement paths. The robust earnings growth suggests these alumni are moving into management or specialized roles within a few years. However, when nearby Cal State campuses like Northridge and Dominguez Hills produce median earnings around $44,800 right out of the gate, parents should ask whether San Bernardino's career services and employer connections match those of peer institutions. The low debt helps cushion the financial gap during those early years, making this workable if your child is patient about career progression.