Psychology at Stetson University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Stetson's psychology graduates start near the national median but climb quickly, with earnings jumping 34% by year four—reaching $41,640, well above what most psychology programs deliver even at graduation. That growth trajectory matters more than the modest starting salary, especially considering the debt load of $23,675 sits comfortably below both state and national medians.
Within Florida's competitive psychology landscape, Stetson ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings despite having a relatively open admissions policy (86% acceptance rate). While elite programs like Trinity International and Saint Leo post higher immediate earnings, few psychology degrees anywhere provide this combination of manageable debt and strong mid-term growth. The 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than one year's starting salary—a reasonable burden that becomes increasingly manageable as earnings rise.
The real consideration here is whether your child plans to pursue graduate school, since psychology careers often require advanced degrees for the highest earnings. If they're heading straight to work, Stetson provides solid preparation with debt that won't constrain their next steps. The moderate sample size suggests consistent outcomes across cohorts rather than isolated success stories.
Where Stetson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Stetson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Stetson University graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 46th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (44 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stetson University | $31,041 | $41,640 | $23,675 | 0.76 |
| Trinity International University-Florida | $39,980 | — | $24,562 | 0.61 |
| Saint Leo University | $36,139 | $35,931 | $32,461 | 0.90 |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University | $35,403 | $39,584 | $25,281 | 0.71 |
| University of South Florida | $32,438 | $40,991 | $21,267 | 0.66 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | $32,346 | $35,291 | $49,688 | 1.54 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Florida
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity International University-Florida Miami | $14,180 | $39,980 | $24,562 |
| Saint Leo University Saint Leo | $28,360 | $36,139 | $32,461 |
| Palm Beach Atlantic University West Palm Beach | $37,990 | $35,403 | $25,281 |
| University of South Florida Tampa | $6,410 | $32,438 | $21,267 |
| Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale | $24,136 | $32,346 | $49,688 |
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 Stetson University, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 66 graduates with reported earnings and 100 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.