Analysis
Stonehill's psychology graduates start modestly at $37,460 but see their earnings jump 39% to nearly $52,000 within four years—a growth trajectory that places them in the 93rd percentile nationally. While the starting salary sits solidly in the middle of Massachusetts psychology programs (60th percentile), this acceleration suggests graduates are finding their footing in career-track roles rather than remaining stuck in entry-level positions.
The $25,000 debt load is reasonable and manageable, representing just eight months of first-year earnings. Compare this to the national picture: Stonehill graduates earn $6,000 more than the typical psychology major right out of college, creating meaningful breathing room for loan repayment. Yes, elite programs like Bentley ($62,000) and Boston College ($45,000) show higher starting salaries, but those typically come with steeper price tags and different career pathways.
For parents worried about the "what can you do with a psychology degree" question, this data tells a reassuring story. The strong earnings growth indicates graduates are successfully transitioning into roles with advancement potential—whether in mental health services, human resources, research, or related fields. The modest debt combined with above-average outcomes makes this a financially sound choice for students genuinely interested in psychology, even at a 73% admission rate institution.
Where Stonehill College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Stonehill College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stonehill College | $37,460 | $51,956 | +39% |
| Boston College | $44,760 | $59,196 | +32% |
| Williams College | $43,943 | $57,158 | +30% |
| College of the Holy Cross | $41,099 | $56,085 | +36% |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | $32,223 | $53,442 | +66% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (52 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54,500 | $37,460 | $51,956 | $25,000 | 0.67 | |
| $58,150 | $62,218 | — | $25,494 | 0.41 | |
| $67,680 | $44,760 | $59,196 | $18,000 | 0.40 | |
| $64,860 | $43,943 | $57,158 | $13,416 | 0.31 | |
| $39,212 | $43,646 | $50,853 | $27,000 | 0.62 | |
| $60,850 | $41,099 | $56,085 | $27,000 | 0.66 | |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 Stonehill College, approximately 15% 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 87 graduates with reported earnings and 132 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.