Analysis
Indiana University-Southeast's psychology program manages to deliver above-average outcomes while keeping debt notably below state norms—a combination that makes financial sense for Indiana families. At $21,988, graduates carry about $5,000 less debt than the typical Indiana psychology major, while earning slightly above the state median right out of the gate. This program ranks in the 60th percentile among Indiana psychology programs and 65th percentile nationally, placing it solidly in the "better than most" category without reaching elite status.
The earnings trajectory here is particularly encouraging. Starting at $33,438, graduates see their income jump 26% to nearly $42,000 by year four—substantially stronger growth than many psychology programs deliver. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.66 means borrowing roughly eight months' salary, which is manageable territory. While this program won't match the $37,000+ starting salaries at schools like Trine or Indiana Tech, it's competitive with Indiana State (which starts $2,300 higher) and comes with lighter debt.
For Indiana families considering an in-state psychology degree, this represents a reasonable middle path: consistent outcomes, controlled costs, and positive earnings momentum. The moderate sample size suggests stable data, and the 83% admission rate means it's accessible to most students.
Where Indiana University-Southeast Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Indiana University-Southeast 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana University-Southeast | $33,438 | $41,950 | +25% |
| University of Indianapolis | $32,237 | $56,992 | +77% |
| Taylor University | $30,311 | $53,764 | +77% |
| Saint Mary's College | $32,213 | $47,897 | +49% |
| Indiana University-Bloomington | $33,810 | $47,627 | +41% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,179 | $33,438 | $41,950 | $21,988 | 0.66 | |
| $35,600 | $37,096 | $39,713 | $27,000 | 0.73 | |
| $9,576 | $37,096 | $39,713 | $27,000 | 0.73 | |
| $30,446 | $36,111 | — | $33,611 | 0.93 | |
| $9,900 | $36,111 | — | $33,611 | 0.93 | |
| $9,992 | $35,742 | $37,358 | $27,000 | 0.76 | |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 Indiana University-Southeast, approximately 34% 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 33 graduates with reported earnings and 48 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.