Median Earnings (1yr)
$32,149
33rd percentile
60th percentile in Georgia
Median Debt
$24,500
14% above national median

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

Earnings Distribution

How Georgia College & State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School1 Year4 YearsGrowth
Georgia College & State University$32,149$45,074+40%
Harvard University$41,501$76,453+84%
University of Rochester$39,732$68,347+72%
University of North Georgia$30,389$40,456+33%
Savannah State University$27,763$30,630+10%

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

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

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Georgia College & State UniversityMilledgeville$8,998$32,149$45,074$24,5000.76
University of North GeorgiaDahlonega$5,009$30,389$40,456$22,7490.75
Savannah State UniversitySavannah$5,498$27,763$30,630$33,4501.20
National Median$34,768$21,5000.62

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with research and experimental psychology graduates

Statisticians

Develop or apply mathematical or statistical theory and methods to collect, organize, interpret, and summarize numerical data to provide usable information. May specialize in fields such as biostatistics, agricultural statistics, business statistics, or economic statistics. Includes mathematical and survey statisticians.

$104,350/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Biostatisticians

Develop and apply biostatistical theory and methods to the study of life sciences.

$104,350/yrJobs growth:Master's degree

Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists

Conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.

$100,590/yrJobs growth:Doctoral or professional degree

Clinical and Counseling Psychologists

Assess, diagnose, and treat mental and emotional disorders of individuals through observation, interview, and psychological tests. Help individuals with distress or maladjustment understand their problems through their knowledge of case history, interviews with patients, and theory. Provide individual or group counseling services to assist individuals in achieving more effective personal, social, educational, and vocational development and adjustment. May design behavior modification programs and consult with medical personnel regarding the best treatment for patients.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Psychologists, All Other

All psychologists not listed separately.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Neuropsychologists

Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Clinical Neuropsychologists

Assess and diagnose patients with neurobehavioral problems related to acquired or developmental disorders of the nervous system, such as neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, and learning disabilities. Recommend treatment after diagnosis, such as therapy, medication, or surgery. Assist with evaluation before and after neurosurgical procedures, such as deep brain stimulation.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Child, Family, and School Social Workers

Provide social services and assistance to improve the social and psychological functioning of children and their families and to maximize the family well-being and the academic functioning of children. May assist parents, arrange adoptions, and find foster homes for abandoned or abused children. In schools, they address such problems as teenage pregnancy, misbehavior, and truancy. May also advise teachers.

$61,330/yrJobs growth:

Managers, All Other

All managers not listed separately.

Compliance Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.

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.