Median Earnings (1yr)
$25,945
11th percentile (25th in CA)
Median Debt
$23,500
13% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.91
Manageable
Sample Size
73
Adequate data

Analysis

The striking 84% earnings jump between years one and four tells an important story about University of La Verne's liberal arts graduates. While first-year earnings of $25,945 lag far behind both the California median ($31,802) and national average ($36,340)—ranking in just the 25th percentile statewide—something clearly clicks for these graduates as they establish their careers. By year four, median earnings reach $47,665, pushing past both state and national benchmarks and demonstrating meaningful career progression.

The $23,500 debt load is relatively manageable, particularly given where graduates end up financially. At less than half the year-four earnings, this debt level sits well below California's median for liberal arts programs. However, parents should understand that initial year presents a squeeze: graduates owe nearly as much as they earn in those early months post-graduation. The question becomes whether your child can weather that challenging first year, possibly requiring family support or supplemental income.

This program works best for students who can afford patience—those with safety nets who can accept lower initial earnings in exchange for solid long-term growth. The near-doubling of income suggests graduates successfully pivot into better opportunities, but families counting on immediate financial independence after graduation may find this trajectory stressful.

Where University of La Verne Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors's programs nationally

University of La VerneOther liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of La Verne graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of La Verne graduates earn $26k, placing them in the 11th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in California

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (80 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of La Verne$25,945$47,665$23,5000.91
National University$57,429—$35,4260.62
Saint Mary's College of California$56,094$53,489$27,0000.48
Ashford University$49,010$46,413$31,5000.64
Antioch University-Los Angeles$46,487$44,094$29,8320.64
Antioch University-Santa Barbara$46,487$44,094$29,8320.64
National Median$36,340—$27,0000.74

Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in California

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
National University
San Diego
$13,320$57,429$35,426
Saint Mary's College of California
Moraga
$56,134$56,094$27,000
Ashford University
San Diego
$13,160$49,010$31,500
Antioch University-Los Angeles
Culver City
—$46,487$29,832
Antioch University-Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara
—$46,487$29,832

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 La Verne, approximately 48% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 73 graduates with reported earnings and 165 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.