At $14,013/yr net price, University of California-Los Angeles graduates earn $82,511/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $48,511/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $14,013 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $56,052 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $82,511/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$48,511/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 92.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $14,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,864/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,731/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,065/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,250/yr |
| $110,001+ | $30,481/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $143,744 | $97,335 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Master | $134,761 | |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Doctoral | $117,572 | |
| Applied Mathematics. | Master | $117,572 | |
| Engineering, General. | Master | $111,435 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Bachelor | $110,878 | $15,156 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Doctoral | $106,421 | $70,000 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $101,128 | $135,373 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $99,959 | $72,829 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $99,040 | $50,511 |
The Risk Factor
92.7% of students at University of California-Los Angeles graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
UCLA delivers strong financial returns with median earnings exceeding $80,000 and relatively low debt burdens. Your net price of around $14,000 makes this one of the better value propositions among top-tier universities, especially given the school's elite academic reputation and extensive alumni network in high-paying California industries.
Business Administration stands out with nearly $144,000 in median earnings, though you'll carry significantly higher debt loads approaching $100,000. Computer Science, Applied Math, and Engineering programs all clear $110,000 in earnings with more manageable debt levels. These STEM fields benefit from UCLA's proximity to Silicon Valley and LA's growing tech sector, plus strong recruitment relationships with major employers.
Your biggest financial risk is choosing programs outside these high-earning majors. UCLA's liberal arts programs may not justify the opportunity cost compared to less expensive state schools, despite the strong name. The school's competitive admissions also mean you're competing with high achievers for the same entry-level positions.
UCLA works best financially if you're California resident targeting business, tech, or engineering careers where the alumni network and regional connections pay dividends. Out-of-state students face much higher costs that may not justify the premium over their home state flagships.
California's generous financial aid system means you should apply regardless of family income, as the state's Cal Grant program can significantly reduce costs. Merit aid is limited, but need-based support is substantial for middle and lower-income families. Focus your application on high-earning programs where UCLA's brand carries the most weight with employers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UCLA worth the cost for most students?
UCLA offers strong ROI with a relatively low net price of $14,013 annually and graduates earning $82,511 within 10 years. The 93% graduation rate and median debt of just $14,000 make it financially accessible for most students.
Which UCLA programs have the best return on investment?
Business Administration leads with graduates earning $143,744, followed by Computer Science at $134,761. Engineering and Applied Mathematics also perform well, with starting salaries around $117,000.
How much debt do UCLA graduates typically have?
UCLA graduates carry a median debt of $14,000, which is manageable given the strong earning potential. The combination of in-state tuition benefits and solid financial aid keeps borrowing relatively low.
Does UCLA's selectivity affect its value proposition?
While UCLA's 8.6% acceptance rate makes admission competitive, those who get in benefit from strong career outcomes and reasonable costs. The selectivity helps maintain the school's reputation and graduate earning power.