Analysis
University of Pittsburgh-Bradford's psychology program stands out for its impressive earnings growth trajectory, with graduates seeing their income jump 39% from $34,377 to $47,793 between years one and four after graduation. This growth pattern significantly outpaces what you'll find at most psychology programs nationwide, where earnings often plateau early.
The financial fundamentals look solid. Starting salaries rank in the 73rd percentile nationally and 60th percentile among Pennsylvania's 83 psychology programs—respectable performance that puts graduates ahead of most peers. The $26,000 debt load sits slightly below both national and state medians, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76. While the program doesn't match elite schools like Bucknell ($51,645) or Gettysburg ($50,040), it delivers meaningful value at a more accessible price point.
For families considering psychology degrees—often criticized for weak earning potential—this program offers a compelling alternative to the typical narrative. The combination of reasonable debt, above-average starting salaries, and strong earnings momentum suggests graduates are finding career paths that reward experience and skill development. Given the 91% admission rate, this represents an attainable option for students who want to study psychology without the crushing debt burdens or limited earning potential that plague many programs in this field.
Where University of Pittsburgh-Bradford Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Pittsburgh-Bradford 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 Pittsburgh-Bradford | $34,377 | $47,793 | +39% |
| Dickinson College | $37,227 | $62,695 | +68% |
| Lafayette College | $36,235 | $60,657 | +67% |
| Lehigh University | $40,942 | $60,072 | +47% |
| Villanova University | $35,462 | $57,566 | +62% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (83 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,620 | $34,377 | $47,793 | $26,000 | 0.76 | |
| $64,772 | $51,645 | $50,805 | $27,000 | 0.52 | |
| $64,230 | $50,040 | $50,611 | $27,000 | 0.54 | |
| $62,180 | $40,942 | $60,072 | $21,160 | 0.52 | |
| $60,663 | $39,866 | $51,752 | $30,000 | 0.75 | |
| $42,600 | $39,818 | $33,268 | $27,000 | 0.68 | |
| 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 Pittsburgh-Bradford, approximately 46% 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 341 graduates with reported earnings and 567 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.