Psychology at Francis Marion University

Francis Marion's psychology bachelor's graduates start at $26,947—well below both the national median ($31,482) and falling in just the 16th percentile nationally. That's roughly $4,500 less than the typical psychology graduate earns right out of college. While Francis Marion ranks middle-of-the-pack among South Carolina psychology programs (40th percentile), the state's top performers like Charleston Southern and Wofford deliver starting salaries exceeding $34,000. The $30,500 median debt creates an immediate burden that overshadows the degree's income potential, with graduates owing more than they earn in their first year.

The 20% earnings growth to $32,198 by year four offers some relief, bringing graduates closer to national norms. However, this trajectory still lags behind stronger programs in the region. For a family considering this path, the financial picture is challenging: a psychology degree here means entering the workforce at a significant earnings disadvantage while carrying above-average debt.

If your child is set on psychology at Francis Marion, recognize this as a degree requiring careful financial planning—potentially minimizing loans through scholarships, work-study, or family support. Otherwise, exploring higher-performing in-state options like those at Charleston Southern or USC Aiken could yield notably better returns on the same investment.