Psychology at Tuskegee University

Tuskegee's psychology program starts graduates at just $25,589—nearly $6,000 below the Alabama median and roughly $2,000 below even the state's 25th percentile for psychology programs. While earnings do climb significantly to $37,598 by year four, that initial earning power matters enormously when you're staring at $31,000 in debt. For context, graduates from Athens State and Troy University in Alabama start $5,000-9,000 higher, giving them far more breathing room with similar debt loads.

The concerning part isn't just the low starting salary—it's that this program ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally while also carrying more debt than 95% of psychology programs nationwide. Even within Alabama, where psychology earnings tend to run below the national average, this program sits at the 40th percentile. That means you're taking on above-average debt for below-average Alabama outcomes in a state that already underperforms nationally.

The 47% earnings growth is noteworthy and suggests graduates do gain ground over time. But year one is when loan payments begin, and making ends meet on $25,589 while servicing $31,000 in debt will be extremely tight. Unless your student has specific reasons to attend Tuskegee—strong alumni connections, particular research opportunities, or other institutional fit factors—the financial math here points toward exploring other Alabama options that offer better starting salaries.