Computer Science at University of California-San Diego

UCSD Computer Science graduates command starting salaries of $112,000—60% higher than the typical California CS graduate and among the top 5% nationally. Only four California programs produce higher-earning graduates, and three of those (Caltech, Stanford, Pomona) carry significantly steeper price tags and more selective admissions. At just $16,550 in median debt, UCSD delivers nearly identical financial outcomes to elite private schools at a fraction of the cost.

The earnings trajectory is equally impressive, with graduates reaching $131,731 by year four—a strong 18% increase that suggests these students are securing quality positions with growth potential, not just high starting salaries that plateau. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.15 means graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under two months of work, making this one of the most financially favorable computer science programs in the country.

The combination of top-5% national earnings, manageable debt, and a 25% admission rate makes this an exceptional value for California residents. While admission is competitive, students who gain entry access the same Silicon Valley and tech industry networks as students at Stanford or Berkeley, without the financial strain. For families weighing UC options, UCSD's CS program punches well above its weight class.