Computer and Information Sciences at University of California-Los Angeles

A computer science certificate from UCLA estimates around $38,900 in first-year earnings based on comparable programs nationally—but here's what matters more: that's actually below what similar certificates produce in California, where the state median sits at $42,500. For a school with a 9% admission rate, this suggests the certificate may serve a different purpose than a traditional four-year degree, possibly functioning as a credential for career changers or professionals adding technical skills rather than as a primary entry point to tech careers.

The estimated $12,400 debt load translates to a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would theoretically owe less than four months of income. That's lower than many undergraduate certificates nationally, though California programs typically carry even less debt at around $9,200. The financial risk appears contained, but the earnings gap compared to other California programs raises questions about value—particularly when community colleges and specialized tech schools in the state deliver better initial salary outcomes at lower cost.

Given that these figures come from peer programs rather than UCLA's actual graduates, parents should recognize they're working with educated guesses, not proven outcomes. If your child needs a quick tech credential and has access to UCLA's network, the manageable debt makes this a calculated risk. But if maximizing immediate earning potential is the priority, other California certificate programs appear to deliver stronger returns.