Psychology at Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Millersville's psychology program produces earnings that beat the national average but fall short within Pennsylvania, where the state's many strong liberal arts colleges drive median outcomes higher. At $33,168 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $6,000 more than the national psychology median but rank only in the 40th percentile statewide—meaning 60% of Pennsylvania psychology programs yield better initial outcomes. The gap is stark when compared to elite in-state options like Bucknell ($51,645) or even regional competitors, though Millersville's 89% admission rate serves a different student population.
The financial picture is manageable but requires realistic planning. With $25,000 in median debt and a 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates face roughly nine months of first-year income in loans—not ideal for a field where many positions require graduate degrees. The 16% earnings bump by year four shows steady progression to $38,443, suggesting graduates are finding their footing rather than stagnating.
For Pennsylvania families weighing options, Millersville offers a psychology degree at reasonable debt levels with below-average admission selectivity. If your child is committed to psychology and this is their best admission option, the numbers work—but be prepared for a slower financial start than at Pennsylvania's competitive liberal arts schools, and factor in that many psychology careers will require additional education beyond the bachelor's degree.
Where Millersville University of Pennsylvania 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 Millersville University of Pennsylvania graduates compare to all programs nationally
Millersville University of Pennsylvania graduates earn $33k, placing them in the 63th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (83 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Millersville University of Pennsylvania | $33,168 | $38,443 | $25,000 | 0.75 |
| Bucknell University | $51,645 | $50,805 | $27,000 | 0.52 |
| Gettysburg College | $50,040 | $50,611 | $27,000 | 0.54 |
| Lehigh University | $40,942 | $60,072 | $21,160 | 0.52 |
| Drexel University | $39,866 | $51,752 | $30,000 | 0.75 |
| King's College | $39,818 | $33,268 | $27,000 | 0.68 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bucknell University Lewisburg | $64,772 | $51,645 | $27,000 |
| Gettysburg College Gettysburg | $64,230 | $50,040 | $27,000 |
| Lehigh University Bethlehem | $62,180 | $40,942 | $21,160 |
| Drexel University Philadelphia | $60,663 | $39,866 | $30,000 |
| King's College Wilkes-Barre | $42,600 | $39,818 | $27,000 |
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 Millersville University of Pennsylvania, approximately 27% 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 89 graduates with reported earnings and 124 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.