Psychology at Southern Connecticut State University

Southern Connecticut State University's psychology program punches above its weight nationally but sits in the middle of the pack for Connecticut—a state where several elite liberal arts colleges push the bar higher. With graduates earning $35,716 in their first year, this program outperforms 82% of psychology programs nationwide, but ranks in just the 60th percentile among Connecticut schools. That gap tells an important story: while this is objectively a strong performer, Connecticut families have access to notably higher-earning options at schools like Trinity ($48,406) and Charter Oak ($45,428).

The financial picture is manageable but not exceptional. At $23,000 in median debt, graduates leave with slightly less burden than typical Connecticut psychology majors ($25,000), and the 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio means debt equals about eight months of income—workable for most graduates. The 17% earnings bump from year one to year four suggests steady career progression rather than dramatic growth, which is typical for psychology bachelor's holders who often need graduate degrees to maximize earnings.

For families choosing between Connecticut schools, this comes down to cost. If Southern Connecticut offers in-state tuition or better aid than private competitors, it delivers solid value—graduates earn respectably and avoid crushing debt. But if net costs are comparable to the state's higher-earning programs, those alternatives deserve serious consideration.