Urban Studies at California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Urban Studies/Affairs
64 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
64
Optimistic
64
Base Case
60
Pessimistic
Earnings $46,826/yr (14% vs median)
AI Risk High (37% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (111,900 openings/yr)
ROI 21.8x earnings multiple (8.2x out-of-state)
Ranked #2 of 25 Urban Studies/Affairs programs Top 10%

Program Analysis

Your strong outcomes in Urban Studies from CSUN are deeply tied to its Los Angeles location and the practical focus of the CSU system. The immense scale and complexity of the L.A. metropolitan area create constant demand for professionals who understand urban planning, policy, and community development. You'll find graduates working in municipal planning departments across Southern California, at organizations like LA Metro, and with numerous non-profits tackling housing, transportation, and social equity issues. This program likely emphasizes hands-on projects and local case studies, preparing you directly for these roles. While some analytical aspects of urban planning face AI risk, your ability to navigate complex stakeholder interests, conduct community engagement, and develop creative, human-centered solutions will be invaluable. Leverage the program's strong local connections. Focus on securing internships with city agencies or community development organizations early in your academic journey to translate classroom learning into tangible career opportunities.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Urban Studies graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $629K $619K $565K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 22.2x 21.8x 19.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 8.3x 8.2x 7.4x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 64 64 60

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$28,380
Out-of-state: $75,900 (8.2x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$30,396
-7% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$11,987
3.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$70,696
51% growth from Year 1

About California State University-Northridge

California State University-Northridge accepts 93% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, one of the larger campuses at 32,357 students in Northridge, CA. With 56% of students on Pell Grants, the campus draws from a broad economic spectrum.

See all programs and financial aid at California State University-Northridge →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Sociologists $101,690/yr
Urban and regional planners $83,720/yr
View all 4 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Urban Studies at Other Schools

Other Majors at California State University-Northridge

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 64/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Urban Studies at California State University-Northridge?
At 64/100, California State University-Northridge's Urban Studies program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Urban Studies at California State University-Northridge?
The 37% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →