Human Development, Family Studies, at University of California-San Diego

UC San Diego's Human Development and Family Studies program starts graduates at below-market wages but delivers something unusual: strong earnings momentum. That first-year salary of $33,489 looks concerning—especially from a selective UC campus—but by year four, graduates reach nearly $50,000, representing 49% growth that outpaces typical trajectories for this field. Among California programs, this ranks solidly in the 60th percentile, though it still lags behind CSU East Bay and Pacific Oaks.

The debt picture offers some relief: $19,342 is manageable at 0.58 times first-year earnings, and it's actually below California's median for this major. Still, that initial salary means year one will feel financially tight, particularly if your student is covering living expenses in San Diego. The earnings trajectory suggests this program may be positioning graduates for professional advancement—perhaps in counseling, education, or social services roles that reward experience—rather than immediate high earning potential.

For families who can help bridge that first year financially, this program demonstrates real long-term value. But if your student needs to be financially independent immediately after graduation, the starting salary—combined with San Diego's cost of living—creates real challenges. The growth pattern is promising, but only if you can afford the investment period.