Computer Systems Analysis at California State University-San Marcos

Cal State San Marcos graduates in this tech program earn $61,054 in their first year—solidly above both the California median ($56,430) and the national median ($52,507) for computer systems analysis degrees. That 79th percentile national ranking suggests this program delivers particularly strong outcomes compared to peers nationwide. With debt estimated at around $24,635 based on typical borrowing patterns at similar CSU programs, the math works decisively in graduates' favor: they'd owe roughly five months of first-year salary.

The caveat is that debt figure is an estimate, not actual data from this program's graduates. Still, it aligns with CSU San Marcos's accessible profile—96% admission rate and nearly half of students receiving Pell grants—where students typically borrow far less than the $46,000 national median for this degree. Even if actual debt ran somewhat higher than estimated, the strong earnings would likely preserve a manageable debt load.

For parents weighing California tech programs, this represents a compelling option. Your child would be learning computer systems analysis at a price point that appears significantly lower than typical programs in this field, while still achieving earnings that outpace most competitors. The combination of above-average outcomes and below-average estimated debt makes this worth serious consideration, though confirming actual borrowing patterns with the financial aid office would add helpful certainty.