Psychology at Flagler College
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Flagler's psychology program lands squarely in the middle of Florida's competitive landscape—not among the strongest performers, but avoiding the worst outcomes that plague many psychology degrees. At $28,893 in first-year earnings, graduates earn slightly less than the state median of $29,702, placing them around the 40th percentile statewide. The debt load of $25,075 is reasonable and roughly in line with state averages, though the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.87 means new graduates will be dedicating nearly a year's salary to loan repayment.
The 24% earnings growth over four years is encouraging and helps close the gap with higher-earning programs. By year four, graduates reach $35,711—approaching what peers from stronger programs like Palm Beach Atlantic earn initially. Still, when top Florida programs like Trinity International produce psychology grads earning $40,000 right away, the $11,000 difference is hard to ignore. For context, Flagler's psychology outcomes fall well below the national 75th percentile of $34,653 in starting pay.
For a private college experience in a desirable location, parents should understand they're paying for atmosphere and campus life more than career outcomes. This program won't position your child for the strongest financial start compared to alternatives like USF or the private schools outperforming it. If your student is set on Flagler for other reasons, the debt is manageable—just don't expect the psychology degree itself to deliver exceptional earning power.
Where Flagler College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Flagler College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Flagler College graduates earn $29k, placing them in the 28th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (44 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flagler College | $28,893 | $35,711 | $25,075 | 0.87 |
| Trinity International University-Florida | $39,980 | — | $24,562 | 0.61 |
| Saint Leo University | $36,139 | $35,931 | $32,461 | 0.90 |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University | $35,403 | $39,584 | $25,281 | 0.71 |
| University of South Florida | $32,438 | $40,991 | $21,267 | 0.66 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | $32,346 | $35,291 | $49,688 | 1.54 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Florida
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity International University-Florida Miami | $14,180 | $39,980 | $24,562 |
| Saint Leo University Saint Leo | $28,360 | $36,139 | $32,461 |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University West Palm Beach | $37,990 | $35,403 | $25,281 |
| University of South Florida Tampa | $6,410 | $32,438 | $21,267 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale | $24,136 | $32,346 | $49,688 |
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 Flagler College, approximately 28% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 47 graduates with reported earnings and 62 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.