Analysis
UM-Flint's psychology program starts below both state and national medians at $30,259, but shows impressive trajectory—graduates earn 33% more by year four, reaching $40,247. Within Michigan, this lands in the 60th percentile, outperforming the state median of $30,100 and eventually catching up to what top programs deliver initially. The $29,500 debt load is reasonable, sitting just above Michigan's median for psychology programs, with a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio under 1.0.
What's particularly encouraging is the earnings momentum. While competitors like Spring Arbor ($35,492) and Cornerstone ($34,505) post stronger first-year numbers, UM-Flint graduates see substantial income growth relatively quickly. For families considering the university's 69% admission rate and serving a population where 35% receive Pell grants, this represents accessible education with solid returns.
The caveat: that first year at $30K requires patience and likely parental support or part-time work. But for Michigan families seeking an affordable psychology degree from a recognizable state institution, the four-year outlook justifies the investment. This isn't the flashiest option on paper, but the upward earnings curve suggests graduates are landing positions with real advancement potential rather than hitting an early ceiling.
Where University of Michigan-Flint Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Michigan-Flint graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan-Flint | $30,259 | $40,247 | +33% |
| Rochester University | $33,375 | $47,992 | +44% |
| Michigan State University | $30,164 | $47,242 | +57% |
| Saginaw Valley State University | $30,092 | $46,870 | +56% |
| Wayne State University | $29,255 | $45,540 | +56% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (36 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Michigan-FlintFlint | $14,014 | $30,259 | $40,247 | $29,500 | 0.97 |
 Spring Arbor UniversitySpring Arbor | $32,580 | $35,492 | $36,705 | $26,000 | 0.73 |
 Cornerstone UniversityGrand Rapids | $29,100 | $34,505 | $33,591 | $37,854 | 1.10 |
 Rochester UniversityRochester Hills | $27,938 | $33,375 | $47,992 | $29,687 | 0.89 |
 Baker CollegeOwosso | $12,810 | $32,913 | $34,935 | $41,688 | 1.27 |
 University of Michigan-DearbornDearborn | $14,944 | $31,803 | $40,707 | $27,977 | 0.88 |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 Michigan-Flint, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 59 graduates with reported earnings and 89 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.