College of the Desert (COD) : Overview, Courses, Scholarships & Rankings
About College of the Desert
Morning light rolls off the Santa Rosa mountains as campus wakes up. College of the Desert is known for strong transfer preparation and practical, hands-on learning across the liberal arts, sciences, business, health, and technology. Students find support through tutoring, advising, counseling, and a busy library, plus ample study nooks and well kept labs.
Life here feels welcoming and down to earth. Clubs, service projects, and low key intramurals make it easy to plug in, while the desert setting means trail time and gallery nights. The culture is can do and multi generational. Career prep shows up in resume help and internships with regional hospitality, healthcare, and clean energy. And the weekend Street Fair at College of the Desert is a favorite tradition that brings the whole valley onto campus.
Key Institutional Details
Contact & Profile
Academic & Institutional
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at College of the Desert (COD) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in California. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
Liberal Arts (3)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $143,290 | +$48,820 (+51.7%) |
24.0103
Humanities/Humanistic Studies.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1199 | Postsecondary Teachers, All Other | $94,470 | $143,290 | +$48,820 (+51.7%) |
Education (8)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.0101
Education, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $117,490 | +$38,990 (+49.7%) |
25-9042 | Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-9043 | Teaching Assistants, Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13.1015
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Early Childhood Special Education Programs.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $117,490 | +$38,990 (+49.7%) |
25-2051 | Special Education Teachers, Preschool | $72,610 | $67,120 | -$5,490 (-7.6%) |
13.1202
Elementary Education and Teaching.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $117,490 | +$38,990 (+49.7%) |
25-2021 | Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education | $69,790 | $82,960 | +$13,170 (+18.9%) |
13.1210
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $117,490 | +$38,990 (+49.7%) |
25-2011 | Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education | $41,450 | $48,180 | +$6,730 (+16.2%) |
25-2012 | Kindergarten Teachers, Except Special Education | $67,020 | $75,310 | +$8,290 (+12.4%) |
25-2021 | Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education | $69,790 | $82,960 | +$13,170 (+18.9%) |
25-9042 | Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-9043 | Teaching Assistants, Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13.1501
Teacher Assistant/Aide.
(Cert<1y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-9042 | Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-9043 | Teaching Assistants, Special Education | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-9049 | Teaching Assistants, All Other | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13.9999
Education, Other.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1081 | Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $78,500 | $117,490 | +$38,990 (+49.7%) |
25-3099 | Teachers and Instructors, All Other | $71,610 | $88,300 | +$16,690 (+23.3%) |
Health (14)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0000
HEALTH PROFESSIONS AND RELATED PROGRAMS.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
51.0716
Medical Administrative/Executive Assistant and Medical Secretary.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-6013 | Medical Secretaries and Administrative Assistants | $45,580 | $48,270 | +$2,690 (+5.9%) |
51.0805
Pharmacy Technician/Assistant.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $153,860 | +$15,960 (+11.6%) |
29-2052 | Pharmacy Technicians | $44,800 | $52,680 | +$7,880 (+17.6%) |
51.0806
Physical Therapy Assistant.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
31-2021 | Physical Therapist Assistants | $67,160 | $78,320 | +$11,160 (+16.6%) |
51.0904
Emergency Medical Technology/Technician (EMT Paramedic).
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $153,860 | +$15,960 (+11.6%) |
29-2042 | Emergency Medical Technicians | $44,790 | $52,850 | +$8,060 (+18%) |
29-2043 | Paramedics | $60,610 | $74,630 | +$14,020 (+23.1%) |
51.0913
Athletic Training/Trainer.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $153,860 | +$15,960 (+11.6%) |
29-9091 | Athletic Trainers | $63,960 | $85,530 | +$21,570 (+33.7%) |
51.1199
Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
51.1501
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
21-1011 | Substance Abuse and Behavioral Disorder Counselors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
21-1014 | Mental Health Counselors | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $153,860 | +$15,960 (+11.6%) |
51.1504
Community Health Services/Liaison/Counseling.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
21-1091 | Health Education Specialists | $71,700 | $78,720 | +$7,020 (+9.8%) |
21-1094 | Community Health Workers | $55,970 | $55,690 | -$280 (-0.5%) |
51.2208
Community Health and Preventive Medicine.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9111 | Medical and Health Services Managers | $137,730 | $145,840 | +$8,110 (+5.9%) |
21-1094 | Community Health Workers | $55,970 | $55,690 | -$280 (-0.5%) |
25-1071 | Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $137,900 | $153,860 | +$15,960 (+11.6%) |
51.3801
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1072 | Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary | $87,090 | $138,780 | +$51,690 (+59.4%) |
29-1141 | Registered Nurses | $98,430 | $132,230 | +$33,800 (+34.3%) |
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
29-2061 | Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses | $64,150 | $72,740 | +$8,590 (+13.4%) |
Human Sciences (7)
Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development
19.0501
Foods, Nutrition, and Wellness Studies, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1192 | Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,450 | $161,740 | +$77,290 (+91.5%) |
29-1031 | Dietitians and Nutritionists | $74,770 | $78,900 | +$4,130 (+5.5%) |
29-2051 | Dietetic Technicians | $39,560 | $48,480 | +$8,920 (+22.5%) |
19.0701
Human Development and Family Studies, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1192 | Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,450 | $161,740 | +$77,290 (+91.5%) |
19.0708
Child Care and Support Services Management.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1192 | Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,450 | $161,740 | +$77,290 (+91.5%) |
25-2011 | Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education | $41,450 | $48,180 | +$6,730 (+16.2%) |
19.0709
Child Care Provider/Assistant.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
39-9011 | Childcare Workers | $33,140 | $40,840 | +$7,700 (+23.2%) |
Business (21)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0101
Business/Commerce, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-1011 | Chief Executives | $262,930 | $163,970 | -$98,960 (-37.6%) |
11-1021 | General and Operations Managers | $133,120 | $120,130 | -$12,990 (-9.8%) |
11-2022 | Sales Managers | $160,930 | $107,350 | -$53,580 (-33.3%) |
11-3012 | Administrative Services Managers | $126,030 | $99,420 | -$26,610 (-21.1%) |
11-3013 | Facilities Managers | $114,520 | $99,000 | -$15,520 (-13.6%) |
11-3051 | Industrial Production Managers | $129,180 | $123,920 | -$5,260 (-4.1%) |
11-3071 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | $116,010 | $113,770 | -$2,240 (-1.9%) |
11-9021 | Construction Managers | $119,660 | $123,050 | +$3,390 (+2.8%) |
11-9072 | Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling | $87,060 | $95,420 | +$8,360 (+9.6%) |
11-9151 | Social and Community Service Managers | $86,100 | $84,080 | -$2,020 (-2.3%) |
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | $76,380 | +$5,760 (+8.2%) |
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
13-1051 | Cost Estimators | $83,160 | $87,950 | +$4,790 (+5.8%) |
13-1082 | Project Management Specialists | $108,100 | $95,860 | -$12,240 (-11.3%) |
13-1111 | Management Analysts | $114,710 | $87,720 | -$26,990 (-23.5%) |
13-2022 | Appraisers of Personal and Business Property | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $124,710 | +$10,870 (+9.5%) |
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-1011 | Chief Executives | $262,930 | $163,970 | -$98,960 (-37.6%) |
11-1021 | General and Operations Managers | $133,120 | $120,130 | -$12,990 (-9.8%) |
11-2022 | Sales Managers | $160,930 | $107,350 | -$53,580 (-33.3%) |
11-3012 | Administrative Services Managers | $126,030 | $99,420 | -$26,610 (-21.1%) |
11-3013 | Facilities Managers | $114,520 | $99,000 | -$15,520 (-13.6%) |
11-3051 | Industrial Production Managers | $129,180 | $123,920 | -$5,260 (-4.1%) |
11-3071 | Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers | $116,010 | $113,770 | -$2,240 (-1.9%) |
11-3111 | Compensation and Benefits Managers | $156,230 | $241,990 | +$85,760 (+54.9%) |
11-3121 | Human Resources Managers | $160,480 | $131,800 | -$28,680 (-17.9%) |
11-3131 | Training and Development Managers | $140,590 | $152,670 | +$12,080 (+8.6%) |
11-9021 | Construction Managers | $119,660 | $123,050 | +$3,390 (+2.8%) |
11-9072 | Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling | $87,060 | $95,420 | +$8,360 (+9.6%) |
11-9151 | Social and Community Service Managers | $86,100 | $84,080 | -$2,020 (-2.3%) |
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | $76,380 | +$5,760 (+8.2%) |
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
13-1051 | Cost Estimators | $83,160 | $87,950 | +$4,790 (+5.8%) |
13-1071 | Human Resources Specialists | $79,730 | $77,800 | -$1,930 (-2.4%) |
13-1081 | Logisticians | $87,600 | $82,860 | -$4,740 (-5.4%) |
13-1082 | Project Management Specialists | $108,100 | $95,860 | -$12,240 (-11.3%) |
13-1111 | Management Analysts | $114,710 | $87,720 | -$26,990 (-23.5%) |
13-1141 | Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists | $82,920 | $86,950 | +$4,030 (+4.9%) |
13-1199 | Business Operations Specialists, All Other | $92,380 | $81,760 | -$10,620 (-11.5%) |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $124,710 | +$10,870 (+9.5%) |
52.0204
Office Management and Supervision.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-3012 | Administrative Services Managers | $126,030 | $99,420 | -$26,610 (-21.1%) |
43-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers | $71,560 | $67,980 | -$3,580 (-5%) |
52.0212
Retail Management.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-1021 | General and Operations Managers | $133,120 | $120,130 | -$12,990 (-9.8%) |
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | $76,380 | +$5,760 (+8.2%) |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $124,710 | +$10,870 (+9.5%) |
41-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Retail Sales Workers | $52,350 | $53,540 | +$1,190 (+2.3%) |
52.0301
Accounting.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-2011 | Accountants and Auditors | $93,520 | $92,210 | -$1,310 (-1.4%) |
13-2022 | Appraisers of Personal and Business Property | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13-2031 | Budget Analysts | $93,920 | $87,910 | -$6,010 (-6.4%) |
13-2041 | Credit Analysts | $98,040 | $93,530 | -$4,510 (-4.6%) |
13-2054 | Financial Risk Specialists | $119,930 | $101,790 | -$18,140 (-15.1%) |
13-2061 | Financial Examiners | $103,650 | $116,660 | +$13,010 (+12.6%) |
13-2081 | Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents | $67,570 | $107,700 | +$40,130 (+59.4%) |
13-2082 | Tax Preparers | $58,860 | $56,660 | -$2,200 (-3.7%) |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $124,710 | +$10,870 (+9.5%) |
52.0302
Accounting Technology/Technician and Bookkeeping.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-2082 | Tax Preparers | $58,860 | $56,660 | -$2,200 (-3.7%) |
43-3031 | Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks | $52,020 | $54,440 | +$2,420 (+4.7%) |
43-3051 | Payroll and Timekeeping Clerks | $56,870 | $63,430 | +$6,560 (+11.5%) |
43-4011 | Brokerage Clerks | $67,680 | $74,110 | +$6,430 (+9.5%) |
43-9111 | Statistical Assistants | $55,470 | $85,880 | +$30,410 (+54.8%) |
52.0401
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers | $71,560 | $67,980 | -$3,580 (-5%) |
43-4161 | Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping | $50,950 | $50,620 | -$330 (-0.6%) |
43-6011 | Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants | $77,060 | $78,180 | +$1,120 (+1.5%) |
43-6014 | Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive | $47,640 | $53,120 | +$5,480 (+11.5%) |
52.0407
Business/Office Automation/Technology/Data Entry.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-4161 | Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping | $50,950 | $50,620 | -$330 (-0.6%) |
43-9021 | Data Entry Keyers | $42,070 | $44,890 | +$2,820 (+6.7%) |
52.0408
General Office Occupations and Clerical Services.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
43-3061 | Procurement Clerks | $50,430 | $54,860 | +$4,430 (+8.8%) |
43-4021 | Correspondence Clerks | $46,610 | $69,860 | +$23,250 (+49.9%) |
43-4071 | File Clerks | $43,700 | $48,600 | +$4,900 (+11.2%) |
43-4151 | Order Clerks | $46,270 | $48,640 | +$2,370 (+5.1%) |
43-5011 | Cargo and Freight Agents | $55,420 | $74,700 | +$19,280 (+34.8%) |
43-9022 | Word Processors and Typists | $49,730 | $49,980 | +$250 (+0.5%) |
43-9041 | Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks | $51,980 | $62,450 | +$10,470 (+20.1%) |
43-9061 | Office Clerks, General | $45,470 | $47,880 | +$2,410 (+5.3%) |
52.0901
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9051 | Food Service Managers | $72,370 | $81,700 | +$9,330 (+12.9%) |
11-9072 | Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling | $87,060 | $95,420 | +$8,360 (+9.6%) |
11-9081 | Lodging Managers | $77,460 | $78,470 | +$1,010 (+1.3%) |
11-9179 | Personal Service Managers, All Other | $70,620 | $76,380 | +$5,760 (+8.2%) |
52.0906
Resort Management.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9072 | Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling | $87,060 | $95,420 | +$8,360 (+9.6%) |
11-9081 | Lodging Managers | $77,460 | $78,470 | +$1,010 (+1.3%) |
52.1501
Real Estate.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9141 | Property, Real Estate, and Community Association Managers | $82,720 | $68,280 | -$14,440 (-17.5%) |
13-2022 | Appraisers of Personal and Business Property | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13-2023 | Appraisers and Assessors of Real Estate | N/A | N/A | N/A |
41-9021 | Real Estate Brokers | $91,660 | $125,060 | +$33,400 (+36.4%) |
41-9022 | Real Estate Sales Agents | $70,970 | $76,740 | +$5,770 (+8.1%) |
52.1801
Sales, Distribution, and Marketing Operations, General.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
13-1022 | Wholesale and Retail Buyers, Except Farm Products | N/A | N/A | N/A |
13-1023 | Purchasing Agents, Except Wholesale, Retail, and Farm Products | N/A | N/A | N/A |
25-1011 | Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $113,840 | $124,710 | +$10,870 (+9.5%) |
41-4012 | Sales Representatives, Wholesale and Manufacturing, Except Technical and Scientific Products | $81,470 | $78,740 | -$2,730 (-3.4%) |
52.9999
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services, Other.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
99-9999 | NO MATCH | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Eng. Technologies (8)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.0501
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3029 | Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other | $79,740 | $91,750 | +$12,010 (+15.1%) |
49-9021 | Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers | $62,690 | $58,830 | -$3,860 (-6.2%) |
15.0507
Environmental/Environmental Engineering Technology/Technician.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3025 | Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians | $63,070 | $40,400 | -$22,670 (-35.9%) |
19-4042 | Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $56,770 | $55,950 | -$820 (-1.4%) |
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3011 | Architectural and Civil Drafters | $68,860 | $65,910 | -$2,950 (-4.3%) |
17-3012 | Electrical and Electronics Drafters | $77,960 | $123,140 | +$45,180 (+58%) |
17-3013 | Mechanical Drafters | $74,040 | $78,870 | +$4,830 (+6.5%) |
17-3019 | Drafters, All Other | $66,530 | $64,880 | -$1,650 (-2.5%) |
15.1701
Energy Systems Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
17-3029 | Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other | $79,740 | $91,750 | +$12,010 (+15.1%) |
27-1021 | Commercial and Industrial Designers | $88,000 | $82,500 | -$5,500 (-6.3%) |
Security & Safety (8)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
43.0102
Corrections.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1111 | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,820 | $173,250 | +$88,430 (+104.3%) |
33-1011 | First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers | $82,260 | $131,110 | +$48,850 (+59.4%) |
33-1012 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $110,990 | $132,820 | +$21,830 (+19.7%) |
33-3012 | Correctional Officers and Jailers | $62,760 | $90,420 | +$27,660 (+44.1%) |
43.0103
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
25-1111 | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,820 | $173,250 | +$88,430 (+104.3%) |
33-1012 | First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives | $110,990 | $132,820 | +$21,830 (+19.7%) |
43.0107
Criminal Justice/Police Science.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
25-1111 | Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,820 | $173,250 | +$88,430 (+104.3%) |
33-3011 | Bailiffs | $62,180 | N/A | N/A |
33-3021 | Detectives and Criminal Investigators | $98,770 | $95,330 | -$3,440 (-3.5%) |
33-3051 | Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers | $79,320 | $102,120 | +$22,800 (+28.7%) |
33-9021 | Private Detectives and Investigators | $61,680 | $57,190 | -$4,490 (-7.3%) |
43.0201
Fire Prevention and Safety Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
33-1021 | First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers | $97,030 | $92,200 | -$4,830 (-5%) |
33-2011 | Firefighters | $63,890 | $64,450 | +$560 (+0.9%) |
33-2021 | Fire Inspectors and Investigators | $87,440 | $95,810 | +$8,370 (+9.6%) |
43.0203
Fire Science/Fire-fighting.
(AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
33-1021 | First-Line Supervisors of Firefighting and Prevention Workers | $97,030 | $92,200 | -$4,830 (-5%) |
33-2011 | Firefighters | $63,890 | $64,450 | +$560 (+0.9%) |
33-2021 | Fire Inspectors and Investigators | $87,440 | $95,810 | +$8,370 (+9.6%) |
33-2022 | Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists | $61,820 | $121,370 | +$59,550 (+96.3%) |
Psychology (1)
Psychological Sciences, Mental Health and Behavioral Studies
42.0101
Psychology, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3032 | Industrial-Organizational Psychologists | $134,400 | $137,540 | +$3,140 (+2.3%) |
19-3033 | Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $106,850 | $116,710 | +$9,860 (+9.2%) |
19-3039 | Psychologists, All Other | $111,340 | $139,090 | +$27,750 (+24.9%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $57,450 | -$6,110 (-9.6%) |
25-1066 | Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary | $93,530 | $140,370 | +$46,840 (+50.1%) |
Mechanics (4)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0604
Automobile/Automotive Mechanics Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-2093 | Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment | $80,980 | $108,260 | +$27,280 (+33.7%) |
49-2096 | Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles | $50,240 | $59,910 | +$9,670 (+19.2%) |
49-3023 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $55,260 | $61,120 | +$5,860 (+10.6%) |
47.0614
Alternative Fuel Vehicle Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
49-3023 | Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics | $55,260 | $61,120 | +$5,860 (+10.6%) |
Social Sciences (7)
Sociology, Anthropology and Political Science Studies
45.0101
Social Sciences, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3099 | Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other | $106,440 | $89,110 | -$17,330 (-16.3%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $57,450 | -$6,110 (-9.6%) |
25-1069 | Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other | $92,950 | $141,850 | +$48,900 (+52.6%) |
25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $84,540 | +$10,840 (+14.7%) |
45.0201
Anthropology, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3091 | Anthropologists and Archeologists | $71,070 | $77,620 | +$6,550 (+9.2%) |
25-1061 | Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,530 | $135,630 | +$33,100 (+32.3%) |
45.0299
Anthropology, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3091 | Anthropologists and Archeologists | $71,070 | $77,620 | +$6,550 (+9.2%) |
25-1061 | Anthropology and Archeology Teachers, Postsecondary | $102,530 | $135,630 | +$33,100 (+32.3%) |
45.0601
Economics, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3011 | Economists | $130,910 | $148,970 | +$18,060 (+13.8%) |
19-3022 | Survey Researchers | $73,470 | $115,630 | +$42,160 (+57.4%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $57,450 | -$6,110 (-9.6%) |
25-1063 | Economics Teachers, Postsecondary | $133,140 | $168,300 | +$35,160 (+26.4%) |
25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $84,540 | +$10,840 (+14.7%) |
45.0701
Geography.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
17-3031 | Surveying and Mapping Technicians | $56,890 | $57,840 | +$950 (+1.7%) |
19-3092 | Geographers | $98,160 | N/A | N/A |
25-1064 | Geography Teachers, Postsecondary | $99,020 | $163,790 | +$64,770 (+65.4%) |
45.1001
Political Science and Government, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3094 | Political Scientists | $137,600 | $132,240 | -$5,360 (-3.9%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $57,450 | -$6,110 (-9.6%) |
25-1065 | Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $105,160 | $139,760 | +$34,600 (+32.9%) |
25-2031 | Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education | $73,700 | $84,540 | +$10,840 (+14.7%) |
45.1101
Sociology, General.
(Cert<2y)
Graduate Career Earnings in California
SOC Code | Occupation | US National | California Avg | CA vs US |
---|---|---|---|---|
11-9199 | Managers, All Other | $149,890 | $120,240 | -$29,650 (-19.8%) |
19-3041 | Sociologists | $111,670 | $123,300 | +$11,630 (+10.4%) |
19-4061 | Social Science Research Assistants | $63,560 | $57,450 | -$6,110 (-9.6%) |
25-1067 | Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary | $97,270 | $133,240 | +$35,970 (+37%) |
Tuition, Fees & Estimated Costs
Overview of tuition rates, housing, and other annual education expenses for undergraduate and graduate students
Financial Aid & Student Support
Summary of scholarships, grants, student loans, and financial aid statistics for undergraduate students
Student Success Metrics
Graduation rates and post-graduation earnings to help assess student outcomes and long-term value of education.
Loan Burden & Repayment Outcomes
Breakdown of loan repayment rates and student debt levels by income and dependency status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about College of the Desert (COD)
How much does it cost to attend College of the Desert (COD)?
The annual tuition at College of the Desert (COD) is $1,326 for in-state students and $9,586 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $2,264 for in-state students and $10,524 for out-of-state students. Additional costs include room and board $25,965 (off-campus) and books and supplies $938.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does College of the Desert offer?
College of the Desert (COD) offers 155 academic programs across 32 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (21 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (14 programs)
- Fine Arts, Design Studies and Creative Performance (13 programs)
- Agricultural Sciences, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine (9 programs)
- Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy (8 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at College of the Desert?
College of the Desert (COD) provides financial aid to 11% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,823 and average loans of $4,583.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,146
- State/Local grants: $2,553
- Institutional grants: $548
- Federal loans: $4,583
The university supports 1,007 students with grants and 3 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for College of the Desert graduates?
College of the Desert (COD) graduates earn a median salary of $31,085 after 6 years and $39,020 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $20,036 (25th percentile) to $58,937 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $65,400 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.
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