Analysis
Norwich University's psychology program outperforms 95% of similar programs nationally in first-year earnings—a remarkable distinction that translates to graduates earning $10,000 more than the typical psychology bachelor's degree holder. However, within Vermont, the picture is more nuanced: graduates here earn about $4,000 more than the state median, placing them solidly in the middle of Vermont's psychology programs. Middlebury leads the state, but Norwich's outcomes handily beat larger institutions like UVM while maintaining reasonable debt levels at $27,000.
The 26% earnings growth trajectory is particularly noteworthy, with graduates reaching nearly $52,000 by year four—strong momentum for a field often criticized for weak early-career returns. The debt burden, at 65% of first-year income, is manageable compared to many psychology programs that struggle with higher debt and lower earnings. With moderate sample sizes suggesting consistent outcomes and an accessible 74% admission rate, this represents an achievable path to above-average psychology earnings.
For families weighing this investment, Norwich delivers uncommon value in psychology—a field where most programs struggle to justify costs. The combination of strong national standing and solid earnings growth makes this worth serious consideration, especially for students who want psychology credentials without the financial anxiety that typically accompanies the degree.
Where Norwich University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Norwich University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Norwich University | $41,164 | $51,746 | +26% |
| Duke University | $33,559 | $72,857 | +117% |
| Middlebury College | $43,839 | $67,306 | +54% |
| University of Vermont | $32,674 | $42,915 | +31% |
| Saint Michael's College | $36,902 | $41,738 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Vermont
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Vermont (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,600 | $41,164 | $51,746 | $26,938 | 0.65 | |
| $65,280 | $43,839 | $67,306 | $17,256 | 0.39 | |
| $11,400 | $37,452 | — | — | — | |
| $50,040 | $36,902 | $41,738 | $27,000 | 0.73 | |
| $18,890 | $32,674 | $42,915 | $22,958 | 0.70 | |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 Norwich University, approximately 24% 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 30 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.