Real Estate at University of San Diego

University of San Diego's real estate program starts modest but catches fire quickly—first-year graduates earn a pedestrian $54,073, barely above the state median, but by year four they're pulling in $93,940. That 74% earnings jump is remarkable and suggests graduates are successfully transitioning into roles with commissions, property management responsibilities, or development positions. Among California's seven real estate programs, USD ranks in the 60th percentile, sitting comfortably above the state median and well ahead of Cal State Northridge, though nowhere near USC's stratospheric $98,763.

The $21,000 debt load is perfectly manageable—less than 40% of first-year earnings and close to both state and national averages. This means students aren't over-borrowing relative to what's typical in real estate education. The real question is whether your child can weather that first year or two of relatively modest earnings. Real estate rewards persistence and relationship-building, which takes time.

For families who can provide financial runway during those early career years, this program offers strong upside. The four-year earnings figure suggests USD's San Diego network and Catholic business school reputation translate into real opportunities once graduates establish themselves in one of the country's hottest real estate markets.