Political Science and Government at University of California-Santa Cruz

UC Santa Cruz's political science program starts graduates at below-average salaries but demonstrates something compelling: 67% earnings growth over four years, jumping from roughly $32,000 to $53,000. That trajectory outpaces typical wage progression and suggests graduates are landing in career tracks with real advancement potential. The low initial earnings likely reflect the Bay Area job market's adjustment period—many graduates may spend their first year in internships or entry positions before breaking into better-paying roles in tech policy, government relations, or advocacy organizations concentrated in Northern California.

The debt picture is notably favorable. At $16,782, graduates owe less than both the state median ($17,500) and well below the national median ($23,500). This places UC Santa Cruz in the 95th percentile nationally for keeping debt low—meaningful given the campus serves a significant population of Pell Grant recipients. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.53 is manageable, particularly when you factor in that four-year earnings nearly double.

The tradeoff is clear: your student will likely start behind peers from Stanford or UC Berkeley (whose grads earn $59,000 and $45,000 respectively in year one), but they'll graduate with minimal debt and strong earnings momentum. For families prioritizing affordable UC education with room for career growth over immediate salary, this program delivers. Just ensure your student understands they'll need patience and strategy during that first year after graduation.