Business/Managerial Economics at University of California-Los Angeles

UCLA's Business/Managerial Economics program stands alone at the top of California's offerings in this field, with first-year earnings of $83,604—that's 55% above the state median and higher than any other California program by a significant margin. The closest competitor, Ashford University, trails by over $17,000. Nationally, this program sits in the 95th percentile, demonstrating exceptional graduate outcomes that justify UCLA's selective 9% admission rate.

The financial equation is unusually favorable. With median debt of just $17,332—slightly below California's median for this major—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21. That means the typical borrower could realistically pay off their loans in less than three months of gross earnings. The debt burden is somewhat higher than at peer California schools (88th percentile nationally), but the dramatically higher earnings more than compensate. Steady 11% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates build on their initial advantage rather than plateau.

For families weighing UCLA's competitive admissions and higher opportunity costs against alternatives, this program delivers tangible returns. You're paying for elite brand recognition and alumni networks that translate directly into job market outcomes—this isn't just marginally better than state alternatives, it's in a different category entirely.