Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 41.8%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 41.1%
- Retention Rate
- 86.4%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $43,845
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $9,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 22:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 44.5%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $95/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 | $47,260 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $13,702 |
Outcomes Overview
MiraCosta graduates earn a median of $43,845 ten years after starting college. Their typical debt load of $9,000 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 21%, well below the concerning 40% threshold. Monthly loan payments of $95 represent only 2.6% of median income, making repayment manageable for most graduates. The college's strong ties to biotechnology companies in the region help explain why earnings climb to $46,348 within five years. Many graduates transfer to four-year universities or enter growing fields like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades that are abundant in North San Diego County. This represents a strong return on investment for students seeking affordable career preparation.