Social Sciences at National University

Estimated debt of $27,000 outpaces the median for social sciences programs in California by more than $10,000, even as expected first-year earnings align with the state average around $35,000. Based on comparable social sciences programs at similar institutions, this means starting out with a debt burden that's 77% of first-year income—manageable but not trivial for someone entering fields that often require graduate degrees or professional certifications to advance.

The earnings picture itself sits slightly below the national benchmark of $37,500, which matters less than the cost structure. Several CSU campuses with reported data show graduates earning similar or higher amounts while carrying substantially less debt. That pattern suggests National University's social sciences program may be pricing itself above what similar California programs deliver in terms of early-career positioning.

For a bachelor's degree that often serves as a stepping stone rather than a terminal credential, that debt load becomes more concerning. If your child plans on graduate school—common in social sciences—adding another $27,000 before earning power improves is a real consideration. The numbers here don't rule out this program, but they do suggest looking hard at whether National University offers specific advantages (evening classes, online flexibility, career connections) that justify the higher debt compared to public alternatives with stronger reported outcomes.