Median Earnings (1yr)
$34,377
73rd percentile (60th in PA)
Median Debt
$26,000
2% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.76
Manageable
Sample Size
341
Adequate data

Analysis

UPitt-Johnstown's psychology program stands out for its impressive earnings trajectory, with graduates seeing their income jump 39% from $34,377 to $47,793 between years one and four. This growth pattern significantly outpaces what you'll typically see in psychology programs, where earnings often plateau early. The program also performs well nationally, ranking in the 73rd percentile for graduate earnings.

The debt picture is reasonable at $26,000, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio of 0.76 that's better than many programs. However, within Pennsylvania's competitive landscape, this program sits at the 60th percentile—solidly middle-of-the-pack among the state's 83 psychology programs. While it can't match elite schools like Bucknell ($51,645) or Gettysburg ($50,040), it delivers stronger long-term earning potential than many more expensive alternatives.

For families seeking a psychology degree that offers genuine career growth rather than just entry-level placement, UPitt-Johnstown presents a compelling option. The combination of accessible admission standards, moderate debt levels, and strong earnings progression makes this program particularly attractive for students who may not have access to Pennsylvania's most selective institutions but still want meaningful career outcomes.

Where University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally

University of Pittsburgh-JohnstownOther 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 Pittsburgh-Johnstown graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown graduates earn $34k, placing them in the 73th 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 Pennsylvania

Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (83 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown$34,377$47,793$26,0000.76
Bucknell University$51,645$50,805$27,0000.52
Gettysburg College$50,040$50,611$27,0000.54
Lehigh University$40,942$60,072$21,1600.52
Drexel University$39,866$51,752$30,0000.75
King's College$39,818$33,268$27,0000.68
National Median$31,482—$25,5000.81

Other Psychology Programs in Pennsylvania

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Bucknell University
Lewisburg
$64,772$51,645$27,000
Gettysburg College
Gettysburg
$64,230$50,040$27,000
Lehigh University
Bethlehem
$62,180$40,942$21,160
Drexel University
Philadelphia
$60,663$39,866$30,000
King's College
Wilkes-Barre
$42,600$39,818$27,000

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-Johnstown, approximately 29% 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.