Psychology at Palm Beach Atlantic University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Palm Beach Atlantic's psychology graduates earn significantly more than most Florida psychology majors—about $10,000 above the state median of $29,702—placing them in the 60th percentile statewide. While they don't quite match the top earner (Trinity International at $39,980), they outperform well-known programs like University of South Florida and Stetson. The $35,403 starting salary also beats 80% of psychology programs nationally, a solid achievement for a bachelor's degree in this field.
The debt picture is reasonable at $25,281, creating a manageable 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio that suggests graduates can realistically pay down their loans. Earnings grow steadily to nearly $40,000 by year four, showing this program doesn't trap graduates in entry-level positions. Given psychology's typical path toward graduate education or immediate employment in social services, these numbers indicate graduates are finding decent opportunities.
For families considering this program, the key advantage is clear: you're getting Florida psychology earnings near the top tier without the higher debt loads some peer institutions carry. The moderate sample size suggests established outcomes, and the 88% admission rate means access isn't a barrier. If your student is committed to psychology and plans to stay in Florida, this program delivers better-than-average early career results.
Where Palm Beach Atlantic University 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 Palm Beach Atlantic University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Palm Beach Atlantic University graduates earn $35k, placing them in the 80th 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 Florida
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (44 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Palm Beach Atlantic University | $35,403 | $39,584 | $25,281 | 0.71 |
| Trinity International University-Florida | $39,980 | — | $24,562 | 0.61 |
| Saint Leo University | $36,139 | $35,931 | $32,461 | 0.90 |
| University of South Florida | $32,438 | $40,991 | $21,267 | 0.66 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | $32,346 | $35,291 | $49,688 | 1.54 |
| Stetson University | $31,041 | $41,640 | $23,675 | 0.76 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Florida
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity International University-Florida Miami | $14,180 | $39,980 | $24,562 |
| Saint Leo University Saint Leo | $28,360 | $36,139 | $32,461 |
| University of South Florida Tampa | $6,410 | $32,438 | $21,267 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale | $24,136 | $32,346 | $49,688 |
| Stetson University DeLand | $55,220 | $31,041 | $23,675 |
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 Palm Beach Atlantic 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 52 graduates with reported earnings and 74 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.