Psychology at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State's psychology program outperforms 85% of programs nationally but lands in the middle of the pack within Kansas—a reminder that the state has unusually strong psychology programs overall. Graduates start at $36,197, well above the national median of $31,482, with debt of $22,951 that's notably lower than both state and national averages. The 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can reasonably manage their loans even in psychology's typically modest salary range.

The challenge is that several Kansas schools—Fort Hays, Ottawa's various campuses, Washburn—produce graduates earning $2,000-$4,000 more annually. Over a career, that gap matters. Still, Pittsburg State's lower debt gives it a cleaner financial profile than pricier alternatives, and the 5% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates aren't hitting an immediate ceiling.

For families prioritizing affordability in psychology, this works. Your child gets solid outcomes at a manageable price, particularly compared to national alternatives where debt often exceeds $25,000. Just recognize that within Kansas, this is a respectable choice rather than the standout performer—other state schools deliver slightly better earning potential for similar or only moderately higher debt.