Economics at California State University-San Marcos

Cal State San Marcos economics graduates start behind but catch up quickly—first-year earnings of $40,000 land in just the 10th percentile nationally, but by year four, graduates hit $60,000, a 50% jump that suggests the degree opens doors even if initial placement isn't stellar. The debt picture helps: at $17,500, it's below both the California median ($16,805) and well under the national average ($22,816), creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44. This means graduates owe less than half their first-year salary, a threshold that makes repayment feasible even during those early, lower-earning years.

The state context reveals an important nuance. While these grads earn less than those from Berkeley ($80,000) or Stanford ($98,000), they're performing at the 25th percentile among California's 55 economics programs—not great, but not bottom-tier either. For families prioritizing affordability and a clear path to mid-career earnings above $60,000, this program works. The 96% admission rate means access is virtually guaranteed, and 44% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the institution serves students who might not have other options.

The tradeoff is clear: accept modest starting salaries in exchange for low debt and strong earnings growth. If your student can weather two or three years of entry-level wages—or has family support to bridge that gap—the trajectory looks solid. For families unable to subsidize those early years, programs with stronger immediate placement might justify higher costs.