Economics at San Diego State University

San Diego State's economics program starts graduates at $44,125—well below both national and California medians for economics majors—but closes much of that gap with strong 40% earnings growth over four years. By year four, graduates earn nearly $62,000, approaching the national median despite the slower start. The program ranks at the 40th percentile among California's 55 economics programs, solidly mid-pack in a state dominated by elite private universities.

The financial picture is actually quite favorable. At $15,250, student debt sits well below both California's median ($16,805) and the national figure ($22,816) for economics programs. That 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly four months of their starting salary—a manageable burden that only improves as earnings climb. SDSU serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (31%), making this relatively low debt especially significant for families watching every dollar.

The real question is whether you're comfortable with that first-year earnings gap. Your child will likely start behind peers from Berkeley or private schools, but the trajectory suggests they catch up reasonably well. If keeping debt low matters more than prestige or maximum starting salary, this program delivers solid value—just don't expect to match the elite California schools on that initial paycheck.