Research and Experimental Psychology at Metropolitan State University

Metropolitan State's experimental psychology program delivers earnings right at Minnesota's median ($36,600), matching the typical outcome for this degree across the state. That might sound reassuring, but there's a troubling wrinkle: earnings actually drop 7% by year four, sliding to $34,172. Among the six Minnesota schools offering this program, only U of M Twin Cities shows lower four-year earnings, while private colleges like Carleton and Macalester pull ahead. The $28,375 debt load sits above the state median, though it's modest by national standards.

The real concern here is the backward earnings trajectory combined with Metro State's access mission—44% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting many graduates are depending on this degree for upward mobility. A psychology bachelor's degree from Metro State won't close doors, but it's unlikely to open them wide without graduate school. That said, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means a few students' career choices could be skewing these numbers significantly.

If your child is serious about psychology as a career rather than just an interest, they should plan for graduate school from day one—and factor those additional costs into the equation. If they're still exploring or need a flexible degree while working, Metro State's accessibility and reasonable debt load have value, but expect modest starting salaries that may not grow quickly.