Psychology at Tusculum University

Tusculum's psychology program outperforms most Tennessee competitors despite modest absolute earnings—graduates land in the 60th percentile statewide, ahead of institutions like Middle Tennessee State and just behind private schools with far higher tuition. Starting at $30,170, earnings grow 19% to nearly $36,000 by year four, a solid trajectory that places graduates within striking distance of programs at Rhodes and Vanderbilt. The debt picture reinforces this program's value: at $28,500, it's higher than the state median but sits in the 10th percentile nationally, meaning 90% of psychology programs nationwide saddle students with more debt for similar or worse outcomes.

The caveat matters here—with fewer than 30 graduates in this cohort, these numbers could shift significantly with a larger sample. That said, serving a student body where 45% receive Pell grants, Tusculum appears to deliver accessible education that translates into middle-tier outcomes within Tennessee's psychology landscape.

For families weighing options, this program offers a practical path: manageable debt paired with earnings that exceed most in-state alternatives. The year-one debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.94 suggests graduates can realistically tackle their loans, and the upward earnings trajectory indicates improving financial stability. If your child is committed to psychology and considering Tennessee schools, Tusculum represents solid value—just understand the small sample size means you're working with limited data.