Psychology at Lawrence University

Lawrence University's psychology graduates leave with remarkably low debt—just $15,000, which sits well below both the state median ($26,000) and national median ($25,500) for this degree. That's the good news. The challenging part is that earnings appear stagnant: similar Wisconsin programs suggest first-year earnings around $35,139, but actual reported outcomes show Lawrence graduates earning essentially the same amount ($34,933) four years into their careers. Most psychology bachelor's holders see at least modest wage growth over that period.

The debt-to-earnings picture is quite favorable at 0.43, meaning graduates owe less than half their expected first-year salary. However, Lawrence students are paying for a selective liberal arts education (63% admission rate, 1349 average SAT) but seeing earnings that trail behind several less selective Wisconsin schools—Marian, Lakeland, and Wisconsin Lutheran all report higher outcomes by $4,000-$10,000. At $35,000 annually, these graduates earn roughly what the typical Wisconsin psychology major makes, despite Lawrence's higher academic profile.

For parents considering this program, the low debt load offers real protection and makes the degree manageable even at modest earnings levels. But understand that you're likely paying more in tuition for outcomes that mirror the state average. If your child is certain about psychology and plans graduate school anyway, that low debt creates valuable flexibility. If they expect the bachelor's degree alone to launch a career, other Wisconsin programs appear to deliver stronger early returns.