Analysis
Cal State Stanislaus's psychology program stands out for its remarkably low debt burden—graduates leave with just $13,920 in loans, placing this among the most affordable psychology programs nationally. While starting salaries of $29,069 trail both national and state medians, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 means graduates face manageable monthly payments that won't derail their financial futures.
The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. Four years out, median pay jumps 43% to $41,432, bringing graduates well above the national average for psychology majors. Among California's 84 psychology programs, this ranks solidly in the middle (40th percentile) for earnings while dramatically outperforming on affordability. The university's 97% acceptance rate and high Pell grant percentage (55%) reflect its mission of providing accessible education to working-class students.
For families concerned about student debt, this program offers genuine value despite modest starting wages. The combination of low borrowing and strong earnings growth creates a financial foundation that most psychology programs can't match. While your child won't start with the highest salary, they'll graduate without crushing debt and see meaningful income increases as they establish their careers.
Where California State University-Stanislaus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How California State University-Stanislaus graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| California State University-Stanislaus | $29,069 | $41,432 | +43% |
| Santa Clara University | $38,587 | $58,545 | +52% |
| University of the Pacific | $23,077 | $57,652 | +150% |
| University of Southern California | $34,139 | $55,156 | +62% |
| University of San Diego | $35,595 | $55,078 | +55% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (84 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 California State University-StanislausTurlock | $7,826 | $29,069 | $41,432 | $13,920 | 0.48 |
 University of Massachusetts GlobalAliso Viejo | $12,520 | $40,726 | $51,379 | $26,703 | 0.66 |
 The Chicago School at Los AngelesLos Angeles | $20,844 | $39,596 | — | $40,645 | 1.03 |
 Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara | $59,241 | $38,587 | $58,545 | $17,667 | 0.46 |
 Ashford UniversitySan Diego | $13,160 | $38,524 | $36,510 | $43,875 | 1.14 |
 National UniversitySan Diego | $13,320 | $38,523 | $54,307 | $31,250 | 0.81 |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 California State University-Stanislaus, approximately 55% 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 363 graduates with reported earnings and 317 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.