Psychology at Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico-Arecibo

Psychology graduates from this Arecibo campus face an unusual situation: they're earning more than 80% of psychology programs across Puerto Rico, yet still landing in the bottom 11th percentile nationally. With first-year earnings around $26,000—37% above Puerto Rico's median for psychology but 17% below the national average—this reflects the island's broader economic constraints rather than program quality. The manageable $12,250 debt load (roughly half the national median) keeps the debt-to-earnings ratio reasonable at 0.47.

The troubling part is what happens after graduation. Earnings drop 19% by year four to just under $21,000, suggesting graduates may struggle to find career-track positions that leverage their degree. Serving a predominantly Pell-eligible student body (76%), this program offers access to higher education for students who might otherwise have limited options, but parents should recognize the economic reality: this degree may function more as credential for general employment than a pathway to psychology-specific careers.

For families considering this program, the question is whether you're comparing it to other Puerto Rico options (where it performs well) or mainland opportunities. The small sample size adds uncertainty, but if staying on the island is the plan and alternatives are limited, the low debt provides some cushion. Just know that career advancement will likely require additional education or relocation to achieve higher earnings.