Median Earnings (1yr)
$30,775
44th percentile (60th in OH)
Median Debt
$27,000
6% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.88
Manageable
Sample Size
22
Limited data

Analysis

Ohio Wesleyan's psychology program produces mixed results that place it solidly in the middle of Ohio's crowded field but slightly below national expectations. First-year earnings of $30,775 land in the 60th percentile statewide—meaning graduates earn more than most Ohio psychology majors—but trail the national median by about $700. The $27,000 debt load is actually lower than both state and national averages, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0. That's good news for parents worried about repayment.

However, the small sample size here matters. With fewer than 30 graduates reporting, a few outliers could significantly skew these numbers in either direction. The program also faces steep competition from nearby schools: Kenyon graduates earn $8,400 more their first year out, and several other Ohio programs show substantially stronger outcomes. For a selective private university with an average SAT of 1311, these earnings feel modest rather than exceptional.

The bottom line: this program won't burden your child with crushing debt, and it performs reasonably well compared to other Ohio psychology programs. But if your child has the credentials for Ohio Wesleyan, they likely qualify for stronger-performing alternatives within the state. The investment makes sense if your child is set on this campus for fit or culture, but purely from an earnings standpoint, it's an average choice in a competitive market.

Where Ohio Wesleyan University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally

Ohio Wesleyan UniversityOther psychology programs

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 Ohio Wesleyan University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Ohio Wesleyan University graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 44th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio

Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (74 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ohio Wesleyan University$30,775—$27,0000.88
Kenyon College$39,203$42,073$19,0000.48
Muskingum University$37,636$34,807$27,6250.73
John Carroll University$36,602$43,225$27,0000.74
Miami University-Hamilton$36,190$46,978$24,0940.67
Miami University-Middletown$36,190$46,978$24,0940.67
National Median$31,482—$25,5000.81

Other Psychology Programs in Ohio

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Kenyon College
Gambier
$69,330$39,203$19,000
Muskingum University
New Concord
$31,440$37,636$27,625
John Carroll University
University Heights
$49,100$36,602$27,000
Miami University-Hamilton
Hamilton
$7,278$36,190$24,094
Miami University-Middletown
Middletown
$7,278$36,190$24,094

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 Ohio Wesleyan University, approximately 25% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 39 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.