Stanislaus State climbed to No. 3 in California for economic mobility in the 2025 California Mobility Index (CMI), released Thursday by the Colleges Futures Foundation and the HEA Group, rising from No. 4 last year and reaffirming the University’s role as a powerhouse in transforming lives through higher education.
The report places Stan State among the top universities in the state for advancing low- and moderate-income students into higher-paying careers, reinforcing the University’s commitment to access, affordability and student success.
Unlike traditional ranking systems that emphasize exclusivity, the CMI prioritizes inclusivity and economic outcomes, evaluating institutions on who they serve and how well they serve them.
According to the latest CMI data, Stan State graduates see a rapid return on their investment, with median earnings reaching $62,691 a decade after enrollment. Alumni earn on average $30,215 more than those with only a high school diploma, while the total net price for a four-year degree at Stan State is $18,487. Students recoup their education costs in less than a year, reinforcing the University’s reputation as one of the best values in higher education.
“Earning the No. 3 spot in the California Mobility Index is an incredible honor and further proof that Stanislaus State continues to be recognized nationally, as well as regionally and statewide for the transformative impact of our education,” said Stanislaus State President Britt Rios-Ellis.
“As the highest-ranked University in the Central Valley, a proud Hispanic-Serving Institution and nationally ranked Regional Comprehensive University, we are dedicated to ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has access to an affordable, high-quality education that leads to real economic opportunity.”
Economic mobility is a key measure of higher education’s impact. It refers to a person’s ability to improve their financial situation and build long-term stability through education and career growth. For many students, earning a degree means greater financial security, expanded career options and a better future for their families.
“Economic mobility is at the heart of our mission because we know that postsecondary education is a powerful pathway to opportunity,” according to the California Mobility Index report. “For first-generation students, students of color, adults looking to reskill and communities impacted by low incomes, a college degree can transform lives and create brighter futures.”
As both a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and Minority-Serving Institution (MSI), Stanislaus State is dedicated to closing equity gaps and fostering success for historically underserved students. California State University campuses dominated the rankings with 13 of the top 15 institutions in the CMI. Among the 82 four-year institutions assessed, 45 are HSIs, further emphasizing the importance of institutions committed to serving diverse populations.
With its strong academic programs, nationally recognized affordability, and proven track record of student success, Stanislaus State continues to be a driving force for economic mobility in California and beyond.
“When our students succeed, they uplift their families, strengthen our communities and fuel the future of the Central Valley and the State of California,” Rios-Ellis said. “We will continue to champion student success and innovation so that every Warrior can build a brighter, more prosperous future.”
