Psychology at Pasadena City College

Pasadena City College's associate psychology program shows below-average starting earnings but delivers something more important: consistent income growth. Graduates earn $24,894 initially—below both the state median of $25,343 and national average—but see their income jump 38% to $34,262 by year four. That trajectory suggests this program is effectively positioning students for continued advancement, whether through bachelor's completion or workforce experience.

The challenge lies in the starting position. At the 40th percentile among California psychology programs, PCC graduates trail peers at schools like Merced College (where grads earn $34,441 after a year) by nearly $10,000 initially. The $12,000 debt load sits well above California's typical $7,387 for this program, though it remains manageable given the earnings trajectory. Half the debt is covered by first-year earnings, and graduates should find repayment straightforward once their income climbs past $30,000.

For families focused on immediate return, stronger-performing California community colleges exist. But if your student is using this associate degree as a stepping stone—particularly toward a bachelor's in psychology or a related field—the strong earnings growth suggests PCC is preparing students reasonably well for what comes next. Just understand you're accepting a slower financial start than many California alternatives offer.