Research and Experimental Psychology at University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus

UC Denver's Research and Experimental Psychology program lands solidly in the middle of the pack, with first-year earnings of $35,155 that place it at the 60th percentile among Colorado's limited pool of psychology programs. The debt load of $21,878 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62, meaning graduates would need roughly 7-8 months of gross earnings to cover their borrowing—reasonable by today's standards. The 21% earnings bump by year four suggests graduates find their footing in the job market, though they're still trailing Metropolitan State's stronger outcomes.

What makes this program worth considering is its location. Being situated in Denver offers psychology students access to research institutions, hospitals, and social services agencies that can provide crucial networking and job opportunities. The school's 78% admission rate makes it accessible, while the moderate debt burden won't saddle graduates with overwhelming payments as they pursue graduate school or entry-level positions in human services, case management, or research assistance.

For parents whose child is committed to psychology and wants to stay in Colorado, this represents a middle-road option—neither exceptional nor concerning. The numbers suggest graduates leave with manageable debt and earnings that track slightly ahead of national norms for this major. Just recognize that a bachelor's in psychology typically serves as a stepping stone to graduate training, where the real career returns materialize.