Research and Experimental Psychology at University of North Florida

University of North Florida's experimental psychology graduates start at $30,816—about $4,000 below the national median but right at the middle for Florida programs. This state-level performance matters because with an admission rate of 62% and moderate debt of $18,750, UNF attracts a different student population than the state's only higher-earning competitor (private Eckerd College, where debt loads are likely steeper). The program significantly outperforms Florida Atlantic, the state's other public option, which pays just $23,981 at the one-year mark.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.61 means graduates owe roughly seven months of their first year's salary—manageable but tight for someone likely heading to graduate school or seeking research positions. The 24th national percentile ranking reflects experimental psychology's niche appeal: this isn't a high-paying bachelor's endpoint anywhere, but rather a stepping stone to advanced degrees. If your child plans to pursue a PhD or master's in psychology, neuroscience, or related fields, UNF provides affordable preparation without the credential disadvantage of skipping research experience entirely.

The real question is whether your child needs graduate school for their career goals. If they're uncertain or hoping this bachelor's degree alone will launch a career, the $30,816 starting point will feel limiting in Jacksonville's job market. For the grad-school bound, though, this represents reasonable preparation at a reasonable price.