University of California-San Diego

What are the graduation rates for students at University of California-San Diego?

University of California-San Diego demonstrates strong performance in graduation outcomes, reflecting a robust academic environment. The overall graduation rate stands at 88%, placing the institution in the top 5% nationally. Male students graduate at a rate of 86%, while female students graduate slightly higher at 89%, both rankings falling within the top 10%.

The university also excels in four-year graduation rates, achieving a rate of 75%, which is considered very high and ranks in the top 10% for institutions nationwide. This suggests that a significant majority of students complete their programs promptly within the traditional timeframe.

More broadly, the six-year graduation rate matches the overall graduation rate at 88%, again securing a position within the top 10%, highlighting the university's ability to support students through to degree completion even if they take longer than four years.

Retention rates provide additional insight into student success. With a 94% retention rate, University of California-San Diego retains nearly all of its students from their first to second year, a metric that also ranks in the top 10% of universities. This high retention figure often correlates strongly with graduation rates, indicating positive student satisfaction and effective academic advising.

What is the earning potential for graduates at University of California-San Diego?

Graduates from University of California-San Diego exhibit a wide range of earning potential depending on their chosen field of study. Those who pursued degrees in the technology and engineering sectors tend to have the highest earnings. For instance, graduates with a degree in Computer Science have an average income of $87,738, while those in Computer Engineering follow with $79,476. Other engineering disciplines such as Mechanical Engineering and Biological/Biosystems Engineering report average earnings of $62,687 and $64,592 respectively. Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering also presents substantial returns with an average income of $71,127.

Graduates in Mathematical and Statistical fields command strong salaries as well. Mathematics and Computer Science graduates earn approximately $64,863, Applied Mathematics $54,802, and Statistics $42,080 on average. Economics graduates find themselves earning an average of $42,370, reflecting solid prospects in quantitative social sciences.

Other science and engineering-related disciplines offer moderate earning potentials. Chemical Engineering graduates see incomes around $53,711, Civil Engineering $60,478, and Biomedical/Medical Engineering $45,324. Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology graduates earn nearly $48,470, while Physics graduates have average earnings of $41,524.

Fields in the social sciences, humanities, and arts generally show lower average salaries but remain relevant for students with interests in these areas. Communication and Media Studies graduates earn about $34,173, Psychology (including Research and Experimental Psychology or Clinical, Counseling, and Applied Psychology) ranges from approximately $28,185 to $29,604, and Anthropology $29,743. English Language and Literature graduates make between $23,736 and $34,778. Sociology graduates average $29,964, and Political Science and Government around $28,579.

Lower average earnings are noted for degrees in Visual and Performing Arts, with fields like Fine and Studio Arts and Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft earning averages below $22,200. Nevertheless, these disciplines may align better with students' career aspirations beyond immediate financial returns.