Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology at Purdue University Global

Purdue University Global's psychology bachelor's program lands graduates in a difficult spot: they're carrying debt that's 57% above the national median for this degree while earning below what other Indiana schools deliver. At $35,086 one year out, graduates here earn about $5,600 less than the Indiana median for psychology programs—placing them in just the 40th percentile statewide. Meanwhile, that $42,443 in median debt sits in the 8th percentile nationally, meaning 92% of psychology programs nationwide leave students with less debt.

The 1.21 debt-to-earnings ratio tells the practical story: graduates owe more than their entire first year's salary. With nearly half of students receiving Pell grants, many are likely financing this education entirely through loans, which makes that debt load particularly concerning. Indiana Wesleyan's comparable programs demonstrate that Indiana psychology graduates can expect around $40,700 in earnings—suggesting Purdue Global's lower outcomes aren't simply a reflection of Indiana's job market.

For families considering this program, the math is straightforward: you're likely paying more to earn less than alternatives within the state. Unless there are specific circumstances that make Purdue Global's online format uniquely necessary, Indiana families should examine other in-state psychology programs that deliver stronger early-career earnings with comparable or lower debt burdens.