Urban Studies at San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Urban Studies/Affairs
60 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
61
Optimistic
60
Base Case
56
Pessimistic
Earnings $50,008/yr (22% vs median)
AI Risk High (37% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (111,900 openings/yr)
ROI 18.1x earnings multiple (7.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #3 of 25 Urban Studies/Affairs programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

San Francisco State's Urban Studies/Affairs program thrives due to its strategic location in the Bay Area, a global hub for innovation yet grappling with significant urban challenges like housing, transportation, and social equity. Your strong outcomes reflect the critical demand for professionals who can navigate this complex environment. You'll find a direct pipeline to careers in local government agencies, non-profits focused on community development and advocacy, and private sector firms engaged in planning, real estate, and urban policy. The program likely leverages its setting to provide practical experience, connecting you with actual projects and key players in San Francisco's unique urban landscape. To maximize your advantage, proactively seek internships and tailor your coursework to specialize in areas like sustainable development, housing policy, or data-driven urban analysis.

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 $541K $537K $500K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 18.2x 18.1x 16.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 7.0x 7.0x 6.5x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 36%
DegreeOutlook Score 61 60 56

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$29,696
Out-of-state: $77,216 (7.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,528
-74% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,625
4.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,943
16% growth from Year 1

About San Francisco State University

With 96% of applicants admitted, San Francisco State University prioritizes broad access, one of the larger campuses at 20,033 students in San Francisco, CA. 41% of students receive Pell Grants, indicating strong socioeconomic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at San Francisco State University →

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 San Francisco State University

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 60/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Urban Studies at San Francisco State University?
At 60/100, San Francisco State University'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 San Francisco State University?
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.
Is San Francisco State University one of the best schools for Urban Studies?
Among 25 Urban Studies programs, San Francisco State University's #3 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →