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
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,998 | $32,149 | $45,074 | $24,500 | 0.76 | |
| $5,009 | $30,389 | $40,456 | $22,749 | 0.75 | |
| $5,498 | $27,763 | $30,630 | $33,450 | 1.20 | |
| National Median | — | $34,768 | — | $21,500 | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with research and experimental psychology graduates
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Managers, All Other
Compliance Managers
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.