Psychology at Excelsior University

Excelsior's psychology program commands nearly $40,000 in first-year earnings—roughly $12,000 above what most psychology graduates earn nationally and $9,000 above the typical New York graduate. That 95th percentile national ranking and 80th percentile state standing are remarkable for an online-focused institution, suggesting graduates are securing positions that value both the credential and whatever professional experience many distance learners bring to the table.

The debt picture adds another positive dimension. At $28,914, borrowing sits well below what most psychology majors accumulate, landing in just the 6th percentile nationally for debt levels. The 0.66 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly eight months of first-year salary—a manageable burden that compares favorably to programs charging similar amounts but delivering far lower earnings. This combination of strong outcomes and controlled costs appears especially valuable for the working adults Excelsior typically serves.

For parents concerned about the practical value of a psychology bachelor's—often criticized as underemployed—this program's performance stands out. Whether graduates leverage existing careers, professional networks, or field-specific skills, they're translating this degree into income that exceeds three-quarters of psychology programs statewide. That's a meaningful return, particularly given the moderate debt load.