Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions at National University

National University graduates enter California's lab science field earning about $5,500 more than the state median—ranking this program in the 60th percentile statewide. That's meaningful in a state where most lab science programs start students below $50,000. However, this comes at a cost: at $38,486, student debt here runs nearly $10,000 higher than California's typical burden for this degree, putting graduates $12,500 deeper in debt than the national median.

The earnings trajectory offers some reassurance. Graduates see 21% income growth by year four, reaching $67,037—a solid gain that helps offset the initial debt load. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 isn't alarming, meaning graduates should be able to manage payments while building careers in hospital labs, research facilities, or diagnostic centers. Still, you're paying a premium compared to most lab science programs nationally, where graduates typically carry $12,000 less debt.

For families weighing this investment, the tradeoff is clear: higher upfront borrowing in exchange for stronger starting earnings within California's competitive market. If your student plans to stay in-state and can absorb the additional debt burden, this program provides decent positioning. But if minimizing debt is the priority, other California options exist with lighter financial loads, even if initial salaries start lower.