Psychology at Eastern Illinois University

Eastern Illinois University's psychology program quietly outperforms most of the nation—landing in the 82nd percentile nationally for earnings—while keeping debt considerably lower than typical. With first-year earnings of $35,740 against just $22,500 in debt, graduates start with a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's roughly $3,000 less debt than the national median for psychology programs, and it matters: a recent graduate could realistically pay this down in 2-3 years with focused budgeting, rather than watching it drag on indefinitely as many psychology majors experience.

Within Illinois, the program sits comfortably in the 60th percentile—not elite, but solidly above the state median. It trails prestigious Northwestern significantly, but it also charges a fraction of the cost. The 23% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates find their footing in the job market rather than stalling out. For a regional comprehensive university with a 68% acceptance rate, these outcomes punch above weight class.

For families concerned about the classic psychology trap—graduating with substantial debt and limited earning power—Eastern Illinois offers a practical path forward. Your child won't start with Northwestern-level earnings, but they also won't spend their twenties buried under debt while working entry-level positions. That combination of above-average outcomes and below-average debt makes this a sensible choice for students committed to psychology.