Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $92,538/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$58,538/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,250 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $89,413 | $22,583 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $86,867 | $41,000 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Master | $68,219 | |
| Business/Managerial Economics. | Master | $64,493 | $41,000 |
| Mathematics. | Bachelor | $64,196 | $21,750 |
| Public Policy Analysis. | Master | $63,005 | |
| Economics. | Bachelor | $60,046 | $23,250 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $55,512 | |
| Communication and Media Studies. | Bachelor | $49,868 | $21,500 |
| Political Science and Government. | Bachelor | $49,744 | $21,625 |
Analysis
Northeastern University Oakland delivers strong financial returns with median earnings nearly 50% above the California average and relatively manageable debt loads. The $92,538 median income ten years after graduation, combined with $24,250 in typical debt, creates a favorable debt-to-income ratio that most graduates can handle comfortably.
Computer science programs dominate the earnings environment here, with graduates earning $86,000 to $89,000 annually. Mathematics majors also perform well at $64,196 despite lower debt of $21,750. However, business economics graduates face a concerning mismatch with $64,493 earnings against $41,000 in debt. Educational administration shows the weakest financial outlook at $68,219, though debt data wasn't available for comparison.
The Bay Area location creates both opportunity and risk. Tech industry proximity drives up computer science salaries, but Oakland's high cost of living means your income won't stretch as far as similar salaries elsewhere. Housing costs alone can consume 40-50% of entry-level tech salaries in the region.
This school makes financial sense if you're pursuing computer science or mathematics and can secure internships with Bay Area tech companies. The Northeastern co-op program's industry connections provide real advantages in this competitive job market. Skip this school if you're considering business economics or education unless you have substantial family financial support.
Private school tuition combined with Bay Area living costs creates significant upfront investment. Target merit scholarships aggressively and consider living arrangements carefully. The strong alumni network in tech can offset some costs through internship opportunities that pay well above minimum wage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeastern University Oakland worth the cost?
Northeastern Oakland graduates earn a median of $92,538 after 10 years with typical debt of $24,250, creating a reasonable debt-to-income ratio. The strong computer science programs justify the cost better than other majors offered.
What are the highest paying majors at Northeastern University Oakland?
Computer and Information Sciences leads with graduates earning around $89,000, while business and math majors earn significantly less at $64,000. The school's tech focus in the Bay Area market drives the computer science premium.
How much student debt do Northeastern University Oakland graduates have?
The median debt is $24,250, which is manageable given the $92,538 median earnings. Students in computer science programs see better debt-to-income ratios than those in education or business.
Should I attend Northeastern University Oakland for business or education?
Business majors earn $64,493 and education administration graduates earn $68,219, both well below the school's overall median. Consider the computer science program instead or look at lower-cost alternatives for these fields.