Psychology at Bellarmine University

Bellarmine's psychology graduates earn slightly less than the national average but actually outperform most Kentucky programs, landing in the 60th percentile statewide. That first-year salary of $29,028 sits below the national median by about $2,500, but it's above Kentucky's median—a meaningful distinction if your child plans to stay in the state. The debt load of $26,376 is right at national norms, and with a debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0, graduates aren't drowning in payments even at these modest salaries.

The 21% earnings bump from year one to year four suggests steady career progression, though even at $35,231, these graduates remain well behind Kentucky's top performers like Spalding ($40,262) or University of the Cumberlands ($36,913). Psychology typically requires graduate work for higher-paying clinical roles, so these figures likely reflect positions in social services, case management, or entry-level corporate work.

For families considering Bellarmine, the calculation depends heavily on net cost. At 94% admission, this isn't a selective program commanding premium outcomes. If you're comparing against public options like Northern Kentucky University—which posts similar debt but $1,000 higher earnings—the private school premium needs justification through fit or specific opportunities. The program works fine as a foundation for grad school, but don't expect the bachelor's alone to deliver financial independence quickly.