Earnings Overview
Mechanical Engineering graduates from University of California-Santa Barbara (CA) have strong career outcomes according to federal data.
Data last updated: February 5, 2026
| Metric | Value | |--------|-------| | School Median Earnings | $74,915 (all majors) | | Tuition (Out-of-State) | $45,742/year | | 4-Year Cost Estimate | $182,968 |
Note: Major-specific earnings at this school may differ from the school-wide median. Federal data tracks earnings 10 years after enrollment.
Why Study Mechanical Engineering at University of California-Santa Barbara?
University of California-Santa Barbara's Mechanical Engineering program offers:
- Access to CA's job market and industry connections
- Faculty expertise in engineering fields
- Alumni network for career advancement
- Research and internship opportunities
Cost Analysis
Understanding your investment in a Mechanical Engineering degree at University of California-Santa Barbara:
Tuition & Fees
- Out-of-State: $45,742/year
- In-State: Often 40-60% less for state residents
- Total 4-Year: $182,968 (before financial aid)
Financial Aid
Most students receive some form of aid. File your [FAFSA](/fafsa/ca) early for the best packages.[Calculate your net cost →](/tools/roi-calculator)
ROI Calculation
Is Mechanical Engineering at University of California-Santa Barbara worth it? Consider:
- Expected earnings: Engineering careers typically offer competitive salaries
- Total cost: $182,968 out-of-pocket (varies with aid)
- Career growth: Mechanical Engineering opens doors in multiple industries
- Opportunity cost: 4 years of study vs. immediate workforce entry
Career Paths for Mechanical Engineering Graduates
Common careers for Mechanical Engineering graduates from University of California-Santa Barbara include:
- Entry-level engineering positions
- CA regional employers and industries
- Graduate school and advanced degrees
- Entrepreneurship and consulting
Compare Mechanical Engineering Programs
How does University of California-Santa Barbara compare to other schools for Mechanical Engineering?
- [See all Mechanical Engineering programs →](/major/mechanical-engineering)
- [Compare schools in CA →](/schools/ca)
- [Add University of California-Santa Barbara to your list →](/dashboard)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for Mechanical Engineering at University of California-Santa Barbara?
Federal data tracks median earnings at 10 years post-enrollment. Starting salaries vary by employer, location, and individual performance.
Is University of California-Santa Barbara a good school for Mechanical Engineering?
University of California-Santa Barbara offers a Mechanical Engineering program with access to CA's job market. Compare outcomes with similar schools using our [comparison tool](/compare).
How much financial aid can I get at University of California-Santa Barbara?
Aid packages vary by family income and merit. File your FAFSA early and check University of California-Santa Barbara's net price calculator for estimates.
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This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings represent median annual earnings 10 years after enrollment for students who received federal financial aid.