Psychology at Claflin University

Claflin's psychology graduates start at $27,280—substantially below the national median of $31,482 and in the 18th percentile nationally. That said, within South Carolina's context, they're near the middle of the pack at the 40th percentile, suggesting the challenge here is partly regional. The program's early earnings trail top state performers like Charleston Southern ($35,364) by nearly $8,000 annually, though it beats several other SC schools.

The financial picture requires careful consideration. At $33,000 in debt—significantly above both state and national medians—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.21, meaning they owe more than they'll earn in their first year. The positive signal is 27% earnings growth by year four, reaching $34,502, which brings graduates closer to competitive territory. For a campus where 73% of students receive Pell grants, this debt burden represents a serious first-few-years challenge, even if longer-term prospects stabilize.

For families investing in psychology here, understand you're accepting below-average starting pay combined with above-average debt. If your child is committed to psychology and Claflin offers strong community or cultural fit, ensure they have financial support for those lean early years or a clear graduate school path that justifies the initial investment. The earnings trajectory improves, but the starting point is tough.