Philosophy at University of California-Los Angeles

UCLA's philosophy program shows a trajectory that should reassure parents worried about liberal arts ROI: graduates start at just over $30,000 but see their earnings jump 45% to nearly $44,000 within four years. That's meaningful momentum that places them in the 60th percentile among California philosophy programs—above the state median and comparable to solid CSU options. The $15,000 debt load is remarkably low for a UC education, sitting well below both state and national averages, which means graduates have breathing room while they establish themselves professionally.

The initial earnings lag behind philosophy powerhouses like USC and Berkeley, but the real story here is accessibility and growth potential. With only 27% of students receiving Pell grants at this highly selective institution, the low debt burden matters even more for families stretching to afford a UC education. Philosophy majors often pursue graduate school, law degrees, or pivot into fields like tech and consulting—paths where that 9% admission rate and UCLA brand carry weight beyond the immediate post-graduation paycheck.

For families who can manage UCLA's cost of attendance and aren't expecting immediate high earnings, this program offers strong fundamentals: manageable debt, steady earnings growth, and a credential that opens doors long after graduation. The four-year earnings trend suggests these graduates are finding their footing in professional roles.