College of the Desert Outcomes

College of the Desert graduates earn a median of $39,020 ten years after leaving school. With low borrowing rates at just 0.54%, most students avoid significant debt burdens that plague graduates elsewhere. The 88.9% employment rate reflects strong job placement in the desert region's growing hospitality, healthcare, and service sectors. Monthly loan payments typically consume less than 5% of graduate income, well below the national recommended threshold of 10%. Many students transfer to four-year universities rather than enter the workforce directly, making long-term earnings data less relevant for transfer-focused students. The combination of minimal debt and solid regional employment opportunities creates a strong return on investment for career-focused programs.