Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $48,848/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$14,848/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $18,750 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Doctoral | $54,035 | |
| Alternative and Complementary Medicine and Medical Systems. | Master | $36,221 | |
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $35,327 | $92,000 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Bachelor | $15,182 | $18,750 |
Analysis
California Institute of Integral Studies delivers weak financial returns for most graduates, with median earnings of just $48,848 ten years after graduation. This falls well below the national average for college graduates and creates serious questions about value for money at this San Francisco-based institution.
The psychology programs show the clearest path to decent earnings, with clinical and counseling psychology graduates earning around $54,000 annually. However, one psychology track saddles students with $92,000 in debt for only $35,327 in median earnings, creating a dangerous debt-to-income ratio that will take decades to pay down. Alternative medicine graduates earn a modest $36,221, which may work if you keep debt low but won't support an expensive San Francisco lifestyle.
The interdisciplinary studies program produces alarming outcomes, with graduates earning just $15,182 annually. This represents one of the worst ROI scenarios in higher education, making loan repayment nearly impossible.
Your biggest financial risk at CIIS is the mismatch between San Francisco living costs and graduate earnings. Even the better-paying psychology programs barely cover basic expenses in one of America's most expensive cities. You may need to relocate after graduation to make the numbers work.
This school makes financial sense only if you plan to pursue psychology or counseling careers and can minimize borrowing. The relatively low median debt of $18,750 suggests many students pay cash or receive substantial aid. If you need significant loans for any program other than the higher-earning psychology tracks, look elsewhere. The specialized nature of these programs also limits your career flexibility if plans change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is California Institute of Integral Studies worth the cost?
The value depends heavily on your program choice. Psychology graduates earn around $54,000 annually, which is reasonable given the relatively low median debt of $18,750. However, graduates in alternative medicine and other interdisciplinary programs see significantly lower earnings that may not justify the investment.
What is the average salary after graduating from California Institute of Integral Studies?
Graduates earn a median of $48,848 ten years after graduation. This is below the national average for college graduates, though psychology program graduates do better at around $54,000 annually.
How much debt do California Institute of Integral Studies students graduate with?
The median debt is $18,750, which is relatively manageable compared to many private institutions. This lower debt load helps offset the school's below-average earnings outcomes.
Which programs at California Institute of Integral Studies have the best ROI?
Clinical and counseling psychology programs offer the strongest return, with graduates earning around $54,000 annually. Alternative medicine programs show weaker outcomes at $36,221, while some interdisciplinary programs result in very low earnings of just $15,182.