Analysis
UConn's research psychology program carries a moderate debt load of $23,199—right at the state median—but the earnings picture requires careful interpretation. Since this specific program lacks published outcomes data, we're relying on national benchmarks suggesting first-year earnings around $34,800. That's substantially below what Connecticut's top programs report: Yale graduates in this field earn nearly $48,000 their first year out, a 38% premium that highlights significant variation even within the same state.
The estimated 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio falls in workable territory, meaning graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first-year salary. However, that calculation assumes UConn's outcomes mirror the national median rather than Connecticut's higher average. Given UConn's selective admissions (1338 average SAT) and flagship status, graduates might reasonably expect to land closer to state norms than national ones—but without actual data, that's speculation rather than evidence.
The practical concern here is that research psychology bachelor's degrees often serve as stepping stones to graduate work rather than terminal credentials. If your child plans to continue their education, factor in additional borrowing ahead. If they're aiming for the workforce directly, understand that peer programs typically place graduates in roles paying $35,000-$40,000 initially. Push the university for clearer outcomes data before committing, especially given what other Connecticut programs are able to report.
Where University of Connecticut Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all research and experimental psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Connecticut
Research and Experimental Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Connecticut (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,366 | $34,769* | — | $23,199 | — | |
| $64,700 | $47,874* | — | — | — | |
| National Median | — | $34,768* | — | $21,500 | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with research and experimental psychology graduates
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary
Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Managers, All Other
Compliance Managers
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 University of Connecticut, approximately 24% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 84 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.