Research and Experimental Psychology at Duke University

Duke's Research and Experimental Psychology program produces graduates who earn slightly above the national median ($39,359 vs. $34,768), but that $39,000 salary represents a surprisingly modest return given Duke's 7% admission rate and 1539 average SAT score. Students who could gain admission here likely have opportunities at similarly selective schools where psychology pathways might lead to stronger initial outcomes. The debt situation looks favorable at first glance—just $12,125 compared to the $21,500 national median—but that 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio still means graduates are dedicating nearly a third of their first year's income to loan repayment, which can feel tight on a sub-$40,000 salary in today's economy.

The state comparison offers limited insight since only three North Carolina schools report data for this specific program, making Duke essentially the median performer in-state. More telling is the national picture: Duke ranks at the 75th percentile for earnings but the 95th percentile for debt-to-earnings ratio, suggesting that while graduates earn more than most psychology majors nationwide, they're not earning enough relative to their credentials to create the financial cushion many families expect from an elite institution.

For families paying Duke's full cost of attendance, this program requires careful consideration. If your student is genuinely passionate about research psychology and plans to pursue graduate school (where Duke's brand carries weight), this could be a solid foundation. But if they're uncertain about their path or hoping their Duke degree will translate to immediate financial security, other programs at the university—or psychology programs at less expensive schools—might offer better value.