Psychology at Loras College

The numbers here tell a troubling story, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means they might not reflect typical outcomes. Loras psychology graduates earn just $23,564 in their first year—dramatically below both the Iowa median of $34,155 and the national average of $31,482. This puts them in the bottom 10% statewide and bottom 5% nationally. While graduates do see significant earnings growth to $48,256 by year four, that initial struggle is real, and the $27,000 debt burden means owing more than an entire year's starting salary.

What's particularly concerning is how far Loras lags behind other Iowa psychology programs. Graduates from Upper Iowa University and Waldorf University earn 75-80% more in their first year out. Even considering Loras's relatively moderate debt load (matching the state median), the earning trajectory creates financial stress precisely when graduates need to start repayment.

The dramatic earnings jump suggests some graduates eventually find their footing, possibly in graduate school or career pivots. But with a 92% admission rate and these outcomes ranking near the bottom statewide, parents should carefully consider whether this investment makes sense—especially when stronger-performing Iowa psychology programs exist at similar price points. The small sample adds uncertainty, but what data we have points toward significant financial challenges in the early career years.