Marketing at University of Phoenix-California

University of Phoenix-California's marketing program delivers something unexpected: first-year earnings of $63,570 that rank in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile in California—outearning even prestigious private schools like Santa Clara and USD. However, this premium comes at a steep cost: $45,070 in median debt, more than double both the state median ($21,000) and national benchmark ($24,267).

The bigger concern is what happens after that strong start. Earnings drop 16% to $53,053 by year four, suggesting graduates may be landing in entry-level roles that don't offer typical career progression. That creates a troubling dynamic where you're paying premium debt for what becomes mid-tier income within a few years. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 looks manageable initially, but deteriorates as earnings decline while loan payments remain constant.

For families comparing options, this program demonstrates an unusual pattern: exceptional initial placement but questionable long-term trajectory. If your child is confident they can leverage that strong first-year salary to rapidly pay down debt or pivot to better opportunities, the entry point justifies consideration. But if you're counting on steady income growth to manage that above-average debt load, California State schools offer more predictable outcomes at roughly half the debt burden.