Psychology at Converse University

Starting at under $26,000 annually puts Converse's psychology graduates at a significant disadvantage—they're earning just 82% of what the typical psychology graduate in South Carolina makes. While the program sits squarely at the state median for debt, the combination means graduates face a challenging first year with debt exceeding their entire annual salary.

The 53% earnings jump to nearly $40,000 by year four offers meaningful improvement, eventually surpassing both state and national medians. This growth trajectory suggests graduates may struggle through those early years but find better footing as they gain experience or pursue graduate education. Still, the program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of psychology programs elsewhere produce higher-earning graduates, even if it performs closer to average within South Carolina's market.

For families considering this $27,000 investment, understand that your child will likely face financial strain immediately after graduation. If they're committed to psychology and plan to stay in South Carolina, Converse provides a pathway to eventual solid earnings. But if they're open to other fields or institutions, programs like Charleston Southern or Wofford produce graduates earning $9,000-$10,000 more right out of the gate with similar debt loads—a difference that matters enormously when making those first loan payments.