Psychology at Brigham Young University

BYU's psychology program offers something increasingly rare: exceptional financial positioning despite modest starting salaries. That $11,000 in median debt ranks in the 95th percentile nationally—meaning only 5% of psychology programs leave students with less debt. For a field where the national median debt is $25,500, this is a massive practical advantage that changes the entire post-graduation calculus.

The earnings tell a more nuanced story. At $33,694 in year one, graduates start slightly above Utah's median for psychology programs (60th percentile statewide) and well ahead nationally (67th percentile). What matters more is the trajectory: earnings jump 33% by year four to $44,664, suggesting graduates are successfully moving into roles that reward their degree. Among Utah psychology programs, BYU ranks second only to the University of Utah, outperforming larger state schools like Utah State by nearly $16,000 in starting salary.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 means graduates owe roughly four months' salary—manageable by any standard. For parents concerned about psychology's reputation as financially risky, BYU's combination of low debt and above-average earnings within Utah creates a much safer bet than most alternatives. The robust sample size confirms this isn't a data fluke. If your child is drawn to psychology, this program delivers the credential without the financial burden that typically accompanies it.