Cell/Cellular Biology and Anatomical Sciences at University of California-Los Angeles

UCLA's cellular biology program produces graduates who start behind many California peers but experience remarkable earnings growth—jumping 50% from $36,945 to $55,461 within four years. However, that initial lag matters: graduates earn less in their first year than the state median of $39,564, placing this program in just the 40th percentile among California's cellular biology offerings. Several Cal State campuses—including San Marcos and Northridge—report significantly stronger early earnings, which raises questions about whether UCLA's prestigious name translates to better early career outcomes in this field.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $15,848, borrowing sits well below both state and national medians, making the initial earnings dip more manageable. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 is reasonable, especially considering how quickly earnings accelerate. Many UCLA cellular biology graduates are likely heading to medical school or graduate programs, which would explain both the modest initial salaries and the steep growth trajectory as they complete additional training.

For families paying a premium to attend UCLA, understand that this program's value materializes over time rather than immediately. If your child plans to continue their education in medicine or research, the trajectory looks solid. If they need strong earnings right out of college, several less selective California programs deliver better year-one results at lower cost.