Psychology at Indiana University-South Bend

IU-South Bend's psychology program starts graduates at a first-year salary below the Indiana median, ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide—roughly $5,000 behind comparable programs at Indiana State or Trine. However, the trajectory matters here: earnings jump 37% by year four to $44,088, substantially outpacing both national and state typical growth patterns for psychology degrees. This suggests graduates are finding career traction, even if the initial landing is softer than ideal.

The debt picture adds nuance. At $22,465, graduates here borrow about $4,000 less than the state average for psychology programs, which partially offsets the lower starting salary. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 is manageable, though the higher national debt percentile (77th) indicates many programs nationwide leave students with even less to repay. For a regional campus serving 41% Pell-eligible students, this combination—moderate debt with strong mid-career growth—suggests reasonable accessibility.

The key question is whether your child can weather those early years earning in the low $30s. If they're committed to psychology and planning to stay in Indiana where the degree gains value over time, this program offers a financially viable path. If they need immediate post-graduation income, programs at the top of the state rankings would provide a $5,000 head start worth considering.