Physics at University of California-Los Angeles
Doctoral Degree
Earnings Distribution
How University of California-Los Angeles graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of California-Los Angeles graduates earn $117k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all physics doctoral programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Physics doctoral's programs at peer institutions in California (13 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-Los Angeles | $116,750 | — | — | — |
| University of California-Berkeley | $106,324 | — | — | — |
| University of California-San Diego | $89,022 | $156,509 | — | — |
| National Median | $99,494 | — | — | — |
Other Physics Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-Berkeley Berkeley | $14,850 | $106,324 | — |
| University of California-San Diego La Jolla | $15,265 | $89,022 | — |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of California-Los Angeles, approximately 27% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.