Psychology at University of Nevada-Reno

University of Nevada-Reno's psychology graduates start below both state and national medians, earning $30,858 in their first year—placing them in just the 40th percentile among Nevada's three psychology programs. However, the story improves dramatically over time: earnings jump 39% to nearly $43,000 by year four, well above what most psychology graduates achieve nationally. This trajectory suggests graduates are successfully transitioning beyond entry-level roles, though they're starting from behind compared to peers at Nevada State, where first-year earnings top $40,000.

The financial picture offers a silver lining: at $19,049, graduate debt sits well below both the state median ($20,500) and national median ($25,500), resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62. Psychology degrees often burden graduates with substantial debt relative to their earnings potential, so this lighter load matters. Still, that first year presents a challenging period when recent graduates are earning roughly $2,500 less than the typical Nevada psychology graduate while launching their careers.

For families, the calculation hinges on patience and planning. If your student can weather a financially tight first year or two—perhaps through additional support or part-time work—the earnings growth pattern suggests this degree can reach solid middle-class territory. The relatively modest debt helps make that runway more manageable than at many institutions.