University of California-Santa Barbara — Santa Barbara, CA
at University of California-Santa Barbara · Santa Barbara, CA
Solid pick
Many political science graduates attend law school or pursue advanced policy degrees. Earnings data may not reflect long-term career trajectories.
Listed Price
$41,573/yr
Starting Salary
$35,379
Finish Rate
83%
$41,573/yr
Full sticker price — tuition, housing, and fees before any aid
Students on financial aid pay $16,109/yr after grants & scholarships (saves $25,464/yr)
4 Years Total
$166,292
Typical Debt
$13,993
Interest You'd Owe
+$5,099
What You'd Really Pay
$69,535
That's about $159/month for 10 years after you graduate
Pays for Itself In
12.9 yrs
Salary Boost
+18%
Ahead After 10 Years
$284,255
Do you earn enough to justify the price?
How fast do you earn back what you spent?
How much more than skipping college?
Will you actually finish?
Data from the U.S. Department of Education. Salaries are what recent grads typically earn — yours could be higher or lower.
Costs can change. These numbers don't adjust for where you live, and only cover students who used federal financial aid. Not financial advice.