Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 41.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $44,521
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $12,936
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 27:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 32.8%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $137/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $18,315 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Certificate | $14,627 |
Outcomes Overview
Pierce College graduates enter the workforce with relatively manageable debt loads. The median debt of $12,936 represents just 29% of first-year median earnings of $44,521. Monthly loan payments of $137 consume about 5% of typical graduate income, well below the recommended 10% threshold. The 93.3% employment rate reflects strong job placement in the San Fernando Valley's diverse economy. Many graduates transition into healthcare, business, and entertainment industry roles that capitalize on LA's major employment sectors. Pierce's transfer programs also feed into California State University campuses for students pursuing bachelor's degrees. The low federal loan rate of 2.47% indicates most students avoid heavy borrowing. With affordable tuition and solid earning potential, Pierce delivers a strong return on investment for career-focused students.