Analysis
College of Coastal Georgia's psychology program costs less than most Georgia alternatives while delivering earnings that land in the 60th percentile statewide—a noteworthy combination for families watching their budgets. With $22,125 in debt versus the state's $27,000 median, graduates here borrow nearly $5,000 less than peers at other Georgia schools. That debt represents just 72% of first-year earnings, meaning graduates face a manageable repayment burden even at starting salaries around $30,500.
The earnings trajectory shows steady growth, with graduates earning $34,579 by year four—roughly matching the national 75th percentile and surpassing most mid-tier Georgia programs. This isn't Emory or Brenau territory, but it outperforms 60% of psychology programs in a state where many charge significantly more. For students likely attending for in-state tuition at an accessible institution (99% admission rate), the value proposition works better than the raw numbers suggest.
The practical reality: this is a solid choice for Georgia families seeking an affordable path to a psychology degree, particularly when paired with plans for graduate school or work in social services where the manageable debt load matters more than maximizing entry-level earnings. The combination of lower borrowing and respectable outcomes makes this program punch above its weight in the state's landscape.
Where College of Coastal Georgia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How College of Coastal Georgia 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| College of Coastal Georgia | $30,532 | $34,579 | +13% |
| Emory University | $32,085 | $52,842 | +65% |
| Oglethorpe University | $25,170 | $49,884 | +98% |
| Agnes Scott College | $24,277 | $47,388 | +95% |
| University of Georgia | $29,874 | $46,847 | +57% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,483 | $30,532 | $34,579 | $22,125 | 0.72 | |
| $33,275 | $36,497 | — | $30,761 | 0.84 | |
| $15,036 | $34,260 | — | $31,000 | 0.90 | |
| $60,774 | $32,085 | $52,842 | $20,500 | 0.64 | |
| $31,725 | $31,474 | — | $26,000 | 0.83 | |
| $5,786 | $31,450 | $42,774 | $26,869 | 0.85 | |
| 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 College of Coastal Georgia, approximately 41% 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 45 graduates with reported earnings and 56 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.