California State University-San Marcos
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$30,956
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$13,673/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
2.3 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
783%
Return on investment
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$7,739
Median Debt at Graduation
$17,350
Median Earnings (5yr)
$48,673
Graduation Rate
55%
Receive Financial Aid
30%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Peer Comparison
783%
20yr ROI
818%
20yr ROI
647%
20yr ROI
380%
20yr ROI
696%
20yr ROI
Financial Aid Impact
Before Aid
After Aid (Estimated)
Methodology
ROI calculations are based on data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. The earnings premium is calculated as the difference between median graduate earnings and the national average earnings for high school diploma holders ($35,000).
The 20-year ROI formula: ((Earnings Premium x 20) - Total Cost) / Total Cost x 100. Break-even point: Total Cost / Annual Earnings Premium. All figures use in-state tuition and do not account for inflation, opportunity cost, or financial aid variations.