Air Transportation at San Diego Christian College

California aviation programs typically launch graduates into the low-to-mid $40,000s, and based on similar programs in the state, San Diego Christian College's bachelor's appears to follow that pattern with estimated first-year earnings around $49,000. This aligns closely with what nearby California Baptist and Cal State LA report for their aviation grads. The estimated debt load of $25,125 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51—manageable by conventional standards, though it means your child would owe roughly half their first-year salary.

The challenge lies in what these figures don't tell you. Aviation careers vary dramatically depending on whether graduates pursue piloting (which requires additional expensive certifications beyond the degree), air traffic control, airport management, or other aviation-related roles. The broader field typically rewards experience and additional credentials more than the bachelor's degree alone. With only a handful of aviation programs in California and limited reported outcomes, it's difficult to assess how San Diego Christian's specific curriculum and industry connections stack up.

The debt burden appears reasonable if this degree leads to a clear aviation career path, but press the school on graduate employment specifics: What percentage actually work in aviation roles? How many need additional training? What's the typical timeline to higher earnings? The estimated numbers suggest viability, but the uncertainty around this small program means those answers matter more than the figures themselves.