Psychology at Park University

Park University's psychology program produces graduates earning about $31,000 in their first year—below both the Missouri median ($32,224) and ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide. That puts it roughly $5,000-6,000 behind stronger Missouri options like Avila or Rockhurst. For a field already known for modest starting salaries, falling below your state's average is a meaningful disadvantage, especially when competing for entry-level positions.

The bright spot here is debt management. At $29,577, graduates carry relatively low loan burdens—lower than 95% of comparable programs nationally. This produces a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.95, meaning graduates owe less than one year's salary. With nearly 40% of students receiving Pell grants, the university appears to be containing costs for students who need it most.

The practical question is whether saving a few thousand dollars in debt justifies earning several thousand less annually. Psychology graduates often need graduate school for career advancement, so minimizing undergraduate debt has strategic value. But if your child plans to work immediately after graduation, those earnings differences compound quickly. This program works for families prioritizing affordability and debt avoidance, but students with stronger academic credentials might find better returns at Missouri schools where psychology majors start $5,000 higher.