Analysis
This University of Phoenix behavioral sciences program delivers solid earnings that rank in the 75th percentile nationally, but comes with a significant debt burden that should give parents pause. Graduates earn $38,087 in their first year—notably above the national median of $35,410 for this field—but carry nearly $50,000 in debt, which is almost double the national average debt load of $26,944 for behavioral sciences programs.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.31 means graduates start with debt equivalent to about 15 months of their salary, which is manageable but not ideal. More concerning is the flat earnings trajectory: graduates actually earn slightly less four years out than in their first year, suggesting limited career advancement opportunities. While 45% of students receive Pell grants, indicating the program serves students with financial need, the high debt burden could be particularly challenging for these borrowers.
The bottom line: your child will likely earn competitive wages right out of college, but will pay a premium price for that outcome. The lack of earnings growth over time means graduates may struggle to outgrow their debt burden quickly. If behavioral sciences is the goal, this program delivers results but at a cost that may not justify the modest premium over national averages.
Where University of Phoenix-Arizona Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all behavioral sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Phoenix-Arizona 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 Phoenix-Arizona | $38,087 | $37,783 | -1% |
| Concordia University-Irvine | $31,899 | $49,240 | +54% |
| George Fox University | $34,613 | $47,713 | +38% |
| Wilmington University | $38,937 | $43,432 | +12% |
| University of Kansas | $36,206 | $42,992 | +19% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Behavioral Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Phoenix-ArizonaPhoenix | $9,552 | $38,087 | $37,783 | $49,770 | 1.31 |
 Wilmington UniversityNew Castle | $12,330 | $38,937 | $43,432 | $27,667 | 0.71 |
 Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster | $68,380 | $38,391 | — | $19,000 | 0.49 |
| University of Phoenix-CaliforniaOntario | — | $38,087 | $37,783 | $49,770 | 1.31 |
| University of Phoenix-NevadaLas Vegas | — | $38,087 | $37,783 | $49,770 | 1.31 |
| University of Phoenix-TexasDallas | — | $38,087 | $37,783 | $49,770 | 1.31 |
| National Median | — | $35,410 | — | $26,944 | 0.76 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with behavioral sciences graduates
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social and Community Service Managers
Life Scientists, All Other
Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other
Social Science Research Assistants
Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other
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 Phoenix-Arizona, approximately 45% 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 775 graduates with reported earnings and 1637 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.