Linguistic, Comparative, at University of California-Davis

UC Davis linguistics graduates start at $22,965—barely above the California state median but well below national benchmarks—yet their trajectory tells a more interesting story. Within four years, earnings jump 33% to over $30,000, bringing them near the national median and ahead of most California competitors except UCLA and Ashford's online program. While this still ranks in just the 22nd percentile nationally, it places squarely at the 60th percentile within California, where language studies typically pay less than in other regions.

The modest $16,079 debt load offers meaningful protection during those lean early years. At 70% of first-year earnings, it's more manageable than the typical linguistics graduate faces, though the low starting salary means even this reasonable debt takes careful budgeting. The gap between UC Davis and top programs like UCLA ($30,524 four-year earnings) isn't insurmountable, but it's real.

For parents, this program works best if your child has clear plans for year one—perhaps graduate school applications, additional certifications, or strategic job placement—rather than expecting immediate financial stability. The growth pattern suggests graduates find their footing, but that first year will likely require financial support or supplemental income. If your student is choosing between UC Davis and Berkeley or UCSB linguistics programs, the nearly identical outcomes make Davis's slightly lower cost the deciding factor.