University of California-Davis
Comprehensive ROI analysis based on tuition costs, graduate earnings, financial aid, and long-term earning potential.
ROI Summary
Total 4-Year Cost
$60,988
In-state tuition x 4
Earnings Premium
$23,461/yr
vs high school diploma avg
Break-Even Point
2.6 years
After graduation
20-Year ROI
669%
Return on investment
ROI Analysis
The University of California-Davis has a strong return on investment. One year after graduation, the median earnings are $41,123, which increases to $58,461 after five years and $80,838 after ten years. The median debt for graduates is $13,000.
The debt-to-income ratio is favorable. The median debt of $13,000 is a small fraction of the one-year earnings of $41,123.
Given the tuition cost of $15,247 and the one-year earnings of $41,123, the break-even point is within the first year of employment.
Generated from College Scorecard & IPEDS data
The Numbers
Annual Tuition (In-State)
$15,247
Median Debt at Graduation
$13,000
Median Earnings (5yr)
$58,461
Graduation Rate
86%
Receive Financial Aid
23%
Avg Aid Amount
$0
Peer Comparison
669%
20yr ROI
649%
20yr ROI
1279%
20yr ROI
84%
20yr ROI
641%
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.