Psychology at California State University-Dominguez Hills

This psychology program shows an encouraging earnings trajectory, with graduates moving from an estimated $36,890 in year one to $47,626 by year four—putting four-year outcomes above both the national and California medians for similar programs. The relatively modest debt load of $13,750, combined with a 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, suggests manageable repayment even on entry-level earnings.

What makes these figures particularly relevant is the school's student body: with 61% receiving Pell grants and a 91% admission rate, CSU Dominguez Hills serves predominantly working-class students who need clear economic returns. The first-year earnings estimate draws from national peer programs since this program's graduate sample was too small for the DOE to publish, but the reported four-year figure provides concrete evidence that graduates do see meaningful wage growth. California's psychology market spans a wide range—from UC Davis at $31,345 to UC San Diego at $47,672—and this program lands in competitive territory by year four.

The low debt burden is the real strength here. At less than $14,000, repayment won't strain a typical psychology graduate's budget, even during the lower-earning early years. For families weighing this against pricier private alternatives in California, the value proposition becomes clearer: similar or better mid-career outcomes without the debt that often accompanies them.