Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology at Emmanuel College

Emmanuel College's Clinical Psychology program punches well above its weight nationally, with graduates earning $41,522 right out of school—putting them in the 94th percentile compared to similar programs nationwide. That's 20% more than the typical psychology bachelor's earns, a significant premium. The less exciting news? Within Massachusetts, where competition includes powerhouses like Boston College, this program sits at the 60th percentile. It beats schools like Tufts and Lesley, though Boston College still edges ahead slightly.

The financial equation looks manageable: $27,000 in debt against first-year earnings yields a 0.65 ratio, meaning graduates owe less than eight months of their starting salary. That's reasonable for a liberal arts degree. What's particularly encouraging is the 29% earnings growth to $53,449 by year four—strong momentum that suggests graduates are finding career traction rather than stalling in entry-level positions.

For Massachusetts families, this presents solid value. While your child won't command Boston College wages immediately, they'll earn more than most psychology graduates nationally, with debt that won't dominate their post-graduation years. The earnings trajectory suggests the degree opens doors to professional advancement. It's a practical choice for a field where many students ultimately need graduate credentials anyway.