Behavioral Sciences (Bachelor's Degree) at Andrews University

Est. Earnings (1yr)

$35,410

Est. from national median (18 programs)

Est. Median Debt

$26,865

Est. from national median (11 programs)

Analysis

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76 suggests manageable monthly loan payments, but the narrow margins here deserve scrutiny. Based on national benchmarks for behavioral sciences bachelor's programs, graduates typically earn around $35,400 in their first year—enough to stay above water with estimated debt of $26,865, but not enough to build much financial cushion. With monthly loan payments likely landing around $300, that first-year salary translates to roughly $2,950 monthly before taxes, leaving little room for unexpected expenses or aggressive debt payoff.

The challenge with behavioral sciences degrees is what comes next. These programs often serve as stepping stones to graduate education in counseling, social work, or related fields rather than terminal credentials. If your child plans to stop at the bachelor's level, they'll be competing for entry-level positions in human services, case management, or research assistance—roles that cluster around this $35,000 salary point. If graduate school is the plan, factor in additional debt and delayed earnings before the degree starts paying dividends.

Given the small graduate cohort (data suppression suggests fewer than 10 completers), connect directly with Andrews to understand placement outcomes and typical career paths. Ask specifically whether graduates move into immediate employment or continue to graduate programs, and what support exists for either track.

Where Andrews University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all behavioral sciences bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs Nationally

Behavioral Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally

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School	In-State Tuition	Earnings (1yr)*	Earnings (4yr)	Median Debt*	Debt/Earnings
Andrews UniversityBerrien Springs	$33,710	$35,410*	—	$26,865*	—
Wilmington UniversityNew Castle	$12,330	$38,937*	$43,432	$27,667*	0.71
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster	$68,380	$38,391*	—	$19,000*	0.49
University of Phoenix-ArizonaPhoenix	$9,552	$38,087*	$37,783	$49,770*	1.31
University of Phoenix-CaliforniaOntario	—	$38,087*	$37,783	$49,770*	1.31
University of Phoenix-NevadaLas Vegas	—	$38,087*	$37,783	$49,770*	1.31
National Median	—	$35,410*	—	$26,944*	0.76

* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with behavioral sciences graduates

Psychologists, All Other

All psychologists not listed separately.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Neuropsychologists

Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Clinical Neuropsychologists

Assess and diagnose patients with neurobehavioral problems related to acquired or developmental disorders of the nervous system, such as neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, and learning disabilities. Recommend treatment after diagnosis, such as therapy, medication, or surgery. Assist with evaluation before and after neurosurgical procedures, such as deep brain stimulation.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Social and Community Service Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.

$78,240/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Life Scientists, All Other

All life scientists not listed separately.

Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other

All social scientists and related workers not listed separately.

Social Science Research Assistants

Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.

Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other

All community and social service specialists not listed separately.

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 Andrews University, approximately 22% 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.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 18 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.