Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,149
33rd percentile (60th in GA)
Median Debt
$24,500
14% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.76
Manageable
Sample Size
90
Adequate data

Analysis

Georgia College's experimental psychology program punches above its weight within the state, outpacing 60% of Georgia programs despite starting behind the national baseline. That first-year salary of $32,149 sits below the national median by about $2,600, but it's significantly ahead of competing Georgia programs—only the University of North Georgia matches this outcome.

The real story here is trajectory. Graduates see 40% earnings growth by year four, reaching $45,074, which narrows the national gap considerably. The $24,500 in typical debt translates to a manageable 0.76 ratio against first-year earnings, and that ratio only improves as salaries climb. At an 88% admission rate with modest academic requirements, this program offers accessible entry to students who might struggle at more selective schools, while still delivering competitive Georgia outcomes.

For families weighing in-state options, this represents solid middle ground: not the highest earning psychology program nationally, but climbing steadily and managing debt responsibly. The moderate sample size suggests reasonable program stability. If your student plans to stay in Georgia and values a less pressured admissions environment, this program delivers better-than-expected returns for its selectivity level.

Where Georgia College & State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all research and experimental psychology bachelors's programs nationally

Georgia College & State UniversityOther research and experimental psychology programs

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 Georgia College & State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Georgia College & State University graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 33th percentile of all research and experimental 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 Georgia

Research and Experimental Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (8 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Georgia College & State University$32,149$45,074$24,5000.76
University of North Georgia$30,389$40,456$22,7490.75
Savannah State University$27,763$30,630$33,4501.20
National Median$34,768—$21,5000.62

Other Research and Experimental Psychology Programs in Georgia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of North Georgia
Dahlonega
$5,009$30,389$22,749
Savannah State University
Savannah
$5,498$27,763$33,450

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 Georgia College & State University, approximately 16% 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 90 graduates with reported earnings and 85 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.