Psychology at Tarleton State University

Tarleton State's psychology program outperforms roughly 60% of similar programs both nationally and across Texas, delivering graduates who earn $32,937 in their first year—about $2,000 above state and national medians. For a school with a 94% admission rate serving a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients, these outcomes represent solid value. The $23,250 median debt sits slightly below typical borrowing levels, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71 that graduates can realistically manage.

The earnings trajectory looks healthy, with graduates seeing 20% income growth by year four to reach nearly $40,000. This isn't Rice or SMU money—those programs start graduates at $41,000+—but Tarleton costs considerably less and still positions graduates in the middle tier of Texas psychology programs. The gap matters less when you factor in the lower debt burden and broader accessibility.

The practical reality: most psychology bachelor's holders need graduate school for career advancement, so managing undergraduate debt matters enormously. Tarleton delivers respectable earnings while keeping borrowing in check, making it a sensible foundation for students planning further education. For families seeking an affordable path into psychology with middle-of-the-pack earning potential, this program accomplishes exactly that without creating financial strain.