Finance and Financial Management Services at University of San Diego

University of San Diego's finance program launches graduates into solid early-career positions at $64,819, then delivers impressive momentum with earnings jumping 36% to $88,295 by year four. This trajectory outperforms 87% of finance programs nationally and lands graduates well above the national median of $53,590. However, context matters: among California's 25 finance programs, USD sits in the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile, trailing UC and other private competitors who place graduates into higher-paying Bay Area roles.

The debt picture tells an interesting story. At $23,508, borrowing aligns almost exactly with the national median for finance programs, creating a manageable 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio. But California finance graduates typically carry just $15,663 in debt—$8,000 less than USD students. The higher price tag reflects USD's private school tuition without the corresponding premium that top California programs command in graduate outcomes.

For families comparing options, USD offers a clear upward trajectory that validates the investment, particularly if your student prefers Southern California over the Bay Area job market. The strong year-four earnings suggest graduates successfully transition into analyst and associate roles at financial institutions. Just recognize you're paying a premium over UC options for the private school experience, not for superior career outcomes relative to other California finance programs.