Psychology at Fort Lewis College

Fort Lewis College's psychology graduates start at just $27,019—notably below both Colorado's median ($33,234) and the national benchmark ($31,482). This ranks in the bottom quarter of Colorado psychology programs, earning roughly $10,000 less annually than graduates from programs at CSU-Fort Collins or Metro State. While the $20,264 debt load is manageable and below national norms, the low starting salary means graduates face real financial strain in those crucial first years after college.

The 18% earnings growth to $31,887 by year four helps close the gap somewhat, bringing graduates closer to national averages. But this trajectory still leaves them trailing most Colorado peers, and the initial years of below-average income can matter significantly when paying rent, building savings, or managing loan payments in Durango's expensive mountain resort economy.

For families considering this program, the fundamental question is whether Fort Lewis's small-town setting and accessible admissions (93% acceptance rate) justify the earnings tradeoff. If your child is genuinely passionate about psychology and needs the supportive environment of a smaller college, the debt load won't sink them financially. But if career earnings matter—and they should when investing in college—stronger alternatives exist throughout Colorado's public university system at similar or lower costs.