Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies at University of California-Davis

UC Davis's Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies program starts modestly but shows impressive momentum, with earnings jumping 44% from $32,563 to $46,911 within four years. That four-year mark puts graduates well ahead of the typical California program in this field ($30,984) and notably surpasses even prestigious Berkeley ($34,559). Among California programs, Davis ranks in the 60th percentile—outperforming most state schools despite the modest first-year figure.

The standout here is the debt picture: at $14,155, graduates carry about half the national average and significantly less than California's typical $18,638. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 is exceptionally manageable, meaning most graduates could realistically pay off their loans within a year or two of starting work. This combination of low debt and strong earnings growth makes the program financially viable even during that challenging first year.

For parents wondering about ROI, this program proves its value over time rather than immediately. Your child won't be earning top dollar right out of college, but they'll be on solid financial footing with minimal debt while their career trajectory builds. The strong four-year earnings suggest graduates are successfully leveraging their UC Davis degree to advance into better-paying roles—a pattern that matters more than the starting salary.