At $13,707/yr net price, University of California-Riverside graduates earn $67,699/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $33,699/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $13,707 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $54,828 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $67,699/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$33,699/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 76.6% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $17,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,240/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,615/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,449/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $17,297/yr |
| $110,001+ | $29,624/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | Doctoral | $79,838 | |
| Computer Engineering. | Bachelor | $69,617 | $25,083 |
| Psychology, General. | Doctoral | $69,338 | |
| Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering. | Bachelor | $66,076 | $19,250 |
| Biomedical/Medical Engineering. | Master | $63,005 | |
| English Language and Literature, General. | Doctoral | $60,839 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $60,320 | $76,013 |
| Mechanical Engineering. | Bachelor | $59,912 | $21,000 |
| Education, General. | Master | $58,568 | $25,601 |
| Chemical Engineering. | Bachelor | $49,464 | $17,182 |
The Risk Factor
76.6% of students at University of California-Riverside graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 23% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
UC Riverside delivers solid financial returns at a bargain price, with median post-graduation earnings reaching $67,699 while keeping your net annual cost under $14,000. This combination creates one of the strongest value propositions in the UC system.
Education majors earn the highest returns at nearly $80,000 annually, making UCR an excellent choice if you plan to teach in California's well-compensated public school districts. Computer and electrical engineering programs also perform well, though computer engineering graduates carry higher debt loads at $25,083. Psychology graduates surprisingly match engineering salaries at $69,338, likely benefiting from the Inland Empire's growing healthcare sector.
The school's location in Riverside creates specific financial advantages and risks. You gain access to both Los Angeles and Orange County job markets without paying coastal housing costs during college. However, local employment options remain limited compared to other UC campuses, potentially requiring you to relocate after graduation.
UCR works best financially if you qualify for California resident tuition and plan to stay in-state after graduation. The 76.6% graduation rate means nearly one in four students never complete their degree, creating significant financial risk if you struggle academically. Strong performers benefit from the low debt burden, with typical graduates owing just $17,500.
Merit aid opportunities remain limited as a public university, but nearly half of students receive need-based assistance. Your best cost strategy involves completing general education requirements efficiently and choosing majors aligned with California's job market strengths in education, technology, and healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is University of California-Riverside worth the cost?
UC Riverside offers decent value with a low net price of $13,707 and graduates earning $67,699 after 10 years. The debt burden is manageable at $17,500 median, making it a reasonable investment for most students.
What are the best paying majors at University of California-Riverside?
Education majors earn the highest at $79,838 after 10 years, followed by Computer Engineering at $69,617. Psychology and engineering programs also show solid returns above the school average.
How much debt do University of California-Riverside graduates have?
Graduates leave with a median debt of $17,500, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This manageable debt load helps improve the overall return on investment.
Is University of California-Riverside a good financial investment?
With low tuition costs and decent post-graduation earnings, UC Riverside provides solid financial returns. The 76.6% graduation rate means most students complete their degree, though earnings vary significantly by major.