Analysis
University of Tampa psychology graduates start modestly at $31,000 but see their earnings climb nearly 30% by year four—reaching $40,000 and outpacing the typical trajectory for this major. That growth matters because psychology bachelor's degrees often plateau quickly, leaving graduates stuck at entry-level wages. With debt under $26,000, graduates here face manageable monthly payments even during those leaner early years.
Within Florida's crowded psychology landscape, this program ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings despite sitting near the median nationally. Translation: Tampa grads earn more than psychology majors at most other Florida schools, including several larger public universities. The $10,000 gap between year-one and year-four earnings suggests graduates are finding pathways into better-compensated roles, whether through graduate school prerequisites, corporate HR positions, or social services advancement.
The realistic concern is that first year at $31,000. In Tampa's job market, that barely covers basic expenses, and many psychology roles require additional credentials for meaningful salary jumps. But the moderate debt load and demonstrated income growth suggest graduates aren't trapped. For families comfortable with a starter salary in exchange for upward momentum, this delivers reasonable value—particularly compared to Florida alternatives where similar debt produces lower outcomes.
Where The University of Tampa Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Tampa 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Tampa | $31,016 | $39,989 | +29% |
| University of Miami | $30,417 | $47,513 | +56% |
| University of Florida-Online | $26,003 | $46,888 | +80% |
| University of Florida | $26,003 | $46,888 | +80% |
| Florida State University | $30,140 | $44,481 | +48% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,424 | $31,016 | $39,989 | $25,730 | 0.83 | |
| $14,180 | $39,980 | — | $24,562 | 0.61 | |
| $28,360 | $36,139 | $35,931 | $32,461 | 0.90 | |
| $37,990 | $35,403 | $39,584 | $25,281 | 0.71 | |
| $6,410 | $32,438 | $40,991 | $21,267 | 0.66 | |
| $24,136 | $32,346 | $35,291 | $49,688 | 1.54 | |
| 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 The University of Tampa, approximately 16% 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 73 graduates with reported earnings and 104 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.