Psychology at Olivet Nazarene University

Olivet Nazarene's psychology program starts graduates at just $24,194—roughly $8,000 below the Illinois median and landing in the bottom 5% nationally. While there's notable earnings growth to $40,428 by year four, that first year creates a challenging financial reality when paired with $27,000 in debt. A parent needs to understand that their child will likely need family support or additional employment during that initial period, as the debt payments alone could consume a significant portion of take-home pay.

The state comparison offers some nuance: this program ranks at the 25th percentile among Illinois psychology degrees, meaning three-quarters of similar programs in the state produce better-earning graduates. Schools like Northwestern ($44,088) and St. Augustine College ($42,911) demonstrate that substantially higher starting salaries exist within the same state, though admissions selectivity and program focus differ. The 67% earnings jump by year four suggests graduates do find their footing professionally, but they're playing catch-up for those early years.

For families considering this program, the financial calculus depends heavily on available support during the first year or two post-graduation. If your child can live at home or if you can assist with expenses while they establish their career, the later earnings growth makes this workable. If they'll need to be financially independent immediately after graduation, the initial salary gap creates meaningful risk that other Illinois programs might better address.