Median Earnings (1yr)
$30,259
40th percentile (60th in MI)
Median Debt
$29,500
16% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.97
Manageable
Sample Size
59
Adequate data

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

University of Michigan-FlintOther psychology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Michigan-Flint graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Michigan-Flint graduates earn $30k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all psychology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan

Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (36 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Michigan-Flint$30,259$40,247$29,5000.97
Spring Arbor University$35,492$36,705$26,0000.73
Cornerstone University$34,505$33,591$37,8541.10
Rochester University$33,375$47,992$29,6870.89
Baker College$32,913$34,935$41,6881.27
University of Michigan-Dearborn$31,803$40,707$27,9770.88
National Median$31,482—$25,5000.81

Other Psychology Programs in Michigan

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor
$32,580$35,492$26,000
Cornerstone University
Grand Rapids
$29,100$34,505$37,854
Rochester University
Rochester Hills
$27,938$33,375$29,687
Baker College
Owosso
$12,810$32,913$41,688
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn
$14,944$31,803$27,977

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.