Psychology at University of Maryland-College Park

UMD-College Park's psychology program outperforms most peers nationally while keeping debt substantially lower than typical. First-year earnings of $36,000 land in the 83rd percentile among 1,400 programs nationwide, and the $20,500 median debt sits well below both the national and Maryland averages. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 means graduates typically owe less than eight months of their starting salary—a manageable burden that gives them financial flexibility right out of school.

The 52% earnings jump to $55,000 by year four shows strong momentum, though within Maryland, this program ranks in the 60th percentile—solid but not exceptional. University of Maryland Global Campus leads the state with $42,000 starting earnings, suggesting online-friendly psychology roles may pay a premium. Still, UMD-College Park's combination of lower debt and strong earning potential creates breathing room many programs don't offer.

For families weighing the flagship university's brand recognition against program-specific outcomes, the numbers support confidence here. Psychology graduates often need graduate school for higher-paying clinical work, and leaving undergrad with below-average debt positions students well for that path. The robust sample size confirms these aren't flukes—this program consistently delivers value relative to its peers.