Psychology at Linfield University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Linfield's psychology program punches above its weight in a competitive Oregon market. At $34,628, first-year earnings beat the state median by $2,200 and rank in the 60th percentile among Oregon's 19 psychology programs—essentially matching outcomes at Oregon State and trailing Pacific University by just $300. More importantly, graduates carry less debt than average: $27,000 versus Oregon's typical $24,523, while still outearning most in-state peers.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.78 means graduates owe roughly nine months of salary, a manageable burden for a bachelor's in psychology. Nationally, this program sits in the 75th percentile for earnings but only the 25th percentile for debt—an advantageous combination. For context, the typical psychology graduate nationwide earns $31,482, so Linfield's $34,628 represents a 10% premium.
For families considering private liberal arts colleges in Oregon, this program delivers competitive outcomes at a debt level that won't derail early-career finances. The combination of above-average earnings and below-average debt makes it a solid choice among state options, particularly for students drawn to Linfield's smaller campus environment.
Where Linfield University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Linfield University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Linfield University graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 75th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Oregon
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (19 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linfield University | $34,628 | — | $27,000 | 0.78 |
| Pacific University | $34,930 | $48,027 | $27,000 | 0.77 |
| Oregon State University | $34,736 | $44,498 | $25,340 | 0.73 |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus | $34,736 | $44,498 | $25,340 | 0.73 |
| Western Oregon University | $34,038 | $43,164 | $23,448 | 0.69 |
| Portland State University | $33,179 | $40,458 | $24,499 | 0.74 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Oregon
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Oregon schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pacific University Forest Grove | $54,466 | $34,930 | $27,000 |
| Oregon State University Corvallis | $13,494 | $34,736 | $25,340 |
| Oregon State University-Cascades Campus Bend | $12,594 | $34,736 | $25,340 |
| Western Oregon University Monmouth | $11,025 | $34,038 | $23,448 |
| Portland State University Portland | $11,238 | $33,179 | $24,499 |
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 Linfield University, approximately 28% 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 32 graduates with reported earnings and 37 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.