Genetics at University of California-Davis

UC Davis's genetics program punches well above the national average—graduates earn nearly $10,000 more than the typical genetics bachelor's holder after one year—while carrying significantly less debt ($14,293 versus $21,424 nationally). The 48% earnings jump from year one to year four suggests strong career trajectory, with four-year earnings reaching $61,115. That low debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 means graduates owe roughly four months of their first-year salary, a manageable burden that allows meaningful financial progress early in their careers.

The state comparison reveals an interesting wrinkle: UC Davis sits at the 60th percentile among California's three genetics programs, meaning there's at least one stronger in-state option. However, the school's 31% Pell grant population and 42% admission rate indicate decent accessibility, and the absolute numbers remain solid—you're still looking at manageable debt and earnings that beat three-quarters of genetics programs nationwide.

For families weighing this investment, the math works. Your graduate enters the workforce with minimal debt and sees their salary increase nearly 50% within four years. That's particularly valuable in a specialized science field where many students continue to graduate school; lower undergraduate debt preserves options for advanced degrees without crushing financial burden.