Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 44.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $43,145
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $7,179
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 26:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 50.3%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $76/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $69,338 | $12,666 |
| Psychology, General. | Associate | $25,194 | |
| Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services. | Associate | $20,140 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $15,695 | |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $12,468 |
Outcomes Overview
Golden West graduates earn a median of $43,145 ten years after completing their programs. With typical debt of $7,179, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of just 17%. Monthly loan payments of $76 represent only 2.1% of median monthly income. The college's strong ties to Orange County's aerospace, healthcare, and hospitality industries help explain the solid 86.8% employment rate. Many graduates transfer to four-year universities or enter technical fields where community college training provides direct pathways to employment. The 50.31% loan repayment rate reflects the reality that some students struggle initially, but the low debt burden prevents financial catastrophe. Golden West delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking affordable career training or university transfer preparation.