Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs β see details below.
Analysis
Based on comparable behavioral sciences programs nationally, Point Park graduates might expect first-year earnings around $35,400βroughly $3,000 below what Pennsylvania programs typically produce. That gap matters when you're carrying nearly $27,000 in debt, though the 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable by federal standards. Similar programs across Pennsylvania show a wide range, with some producing substantially better outcomes, suggesting location and institutional network play significant roles in early career placement.
The debt estimate here comes from Point Park's other bachelor's programs rather than this specific major, which adds another layer of uncertainty. At an open-admission university serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students, actual outcomes for behavioral sciences graduates could vary considerably from these national projections. Pennsylvania's stronger state median ($38,400) suggests that staying in-region for employment might be crucial, particularly given Pittsburgh's healthcare and social services sectors.
The practical challenge: you're making a financial decision based on peer program patterns rather than Point Park's track record with this degree. If your child is drawn to behavioral sciences, requesting information directly from the program about graduate placement rates and typical employer partnerships would be essential. The estimated numbers don't disqualify the program, but they underscore that success here will likely depend heavily on internships, networking, and strategic career planning rather than the credential alone carrying weight in the job market.
Where Point Park University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all behavioral sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Behavioral Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (9 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,160 | $35,410* | β | $26,865* | β | |
| $68,380 | $38,391* | β | $19,000* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | β | $35,410* | β | $26,944* | 0.76 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with behavioral sciences graduates
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Life Scientists, All Other
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
Social Science Research Assistants
Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other
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 Point Park University, approximately 37% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 18 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.