Median Earnings (1yr)
$40,467
95th percentile (60th in MA)
Median Debt
$27,000
6% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.67
Manageable
Sample Size
21
Limited data

Analysis

American International College's psychology program produces surprisingly strong earnings outcomes, particularly when measured against national standards. At $40,467 in first-year earnings, graduates are earning nearly 30% more than the national median for psychology majors and landing in the 95th percentile nationally. That's exceptional performance for a program at a school with near-open admission. The $27,000 median debt is actually lower than the national average, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.67—meaning graduates owe less than eight months of their first-year salary.

The Massachusetts context tells a more nuanced story. While these graduates significantly outperform national psychology majors, they're closer to the middle of the pack within the state (60th percentile), where the median psychology graduate earns $36,873. Still, that's a solid position in a competitive higher education market. Graduates are earning only slightly less than those from much more selective schools like College of the Holy Cross, while taking on similar or less debt.

The main caveat is sample size—with fewer than 30 graduates in the dataset, these figures could shift considerably with more data. But if these numbers hold, this represents a practical pathway for students who may not have access to highly selective colleges but still want decent post-graduation prospects in psychology. The combination of manageable debt and above-average earnings, particularly when compared nationally, suggests this program delivers tangible value for its predominantly Pell-eligible student body.

Where American International College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally

American International CollegeOther psychology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How American International College graduates compare to all programs nationally

American International College graduates earn $40k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts

Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (52 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
American International College$40,467$45,920$27,0000.67
Bentley University$62,218$25,4940.41
Boston College$44,760$59,196$18,0000.40
Williams College$43,943$57,158$13,4160.31
Endicott College$43,646$50,853$27,0000.62
College of the Holy Cross$41,099$56,085$27,0000.66
National Median$31,482$25,5000.81

Other Psychology Programs in Massachusetts

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Bentley University
Waltham
$58,150$62,218$25,494
Boston College
Chestnut Hill
$67,680$44,760$18,000
Williams College
Williamstown
$64,860$43,943$13,416
Endicott College
Beverly
$39,212$43,646$27,000
College of the Holy Cross
Worcester
$60,850$41,099$27,000

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At American International College, approximately 50% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 21 graduates with reported earnings and 29 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.