Analysis
DePauw's Cognitive Science bachelor's appears financially manageable based on what peer programs suggest, though the small graduate cohort means we're working with estimates rather than this school's actual outcomes. With estimated debt around $18,000 and first-year earnings near $41,400—both derived from national medians for similar programs—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 falls comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold. This suggests graduates from comparable programs can typically handle their loans on an entry-level salary, though "cognitive science" is famously interdisciplinary and actual career paths vary enormously depending on whether graduates lean toward tech, research, consulting, or graduate school preparation.
The real uncertainty here isn't just about DePauw specifically—it's that cognitive science programs nationwide produce vastly different outcomes based on curriculum emphasis and student career choices. Some graduates pivot into lucrative UX design or data analysis roles that push earnings well above the $50,700 that marks the 75th percentile nationally; others pursue research positions or graduate school that may initially pay less. The $41,400 estimate represents a middle ground, but for a field this varied, individual trajectory matters more than the median.
For families considering this investment, the moderate estimated debt load is reassuring, but cognitive science's value depends heavily on how your student plans to apply it. The program works well as pre-professional preparation for specific careers or graduate study, but less so as a standalone credential without clear direction.
Where DePauw University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cognitive science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Cognitive Science bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 DePauw UniversityGreencastle | $57,070 | $41,362* | — | $18,000* | — |
 Stanford UniversityStanford | $62,484 | $105,695* | — | $8,055* | 0.08 |
 University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphia | $66,104 | $84,314* | $96,904 | $18,660* | 0.22 |
 Tufts UniversityMedford | $67,844 | $75,672* | — | $18,000* | 0.24 |
 University of California-BerkeleyBerkeley | $14,850 | $64,559* | $91,715 | $13,950* | 0.22 |
 University of California-Los AngelesLos Angeles | $13,747 | $53,962* | $62,158 | $13,000* | 0.24 |
| National Median | — | $41,362* | — | $17,750* | 0.43 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cognitive science graduates
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other
Directors, Religious Activities and Education
Religious Workers, All Other
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other
Self-Enrichment Teachers
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 DePauw University, approximately 16% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 19 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.