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
Earnings Distribution
How University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown 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-Johnstown | $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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Pittsburgh-JohnstownJohnstown | $14,646 | $34,377 | $47,793 | $26,000 | 0.76 |
 Bucknell UniversityLewisburg | $64,772 | $51,645 | $50,805 | $27,000 | 0.52 |
 Gettysburg CollegeGettysburg | $64,230 | $50,040 | $50,611 | $27,000 | 0.54 |
 Lehigh UniversityBethlehem | $62,180 | $40,942 | $60,072 | $21,160 | 0.52 |
 Drexel UniversityPhiladelphia | $60,663 | $39,866 | $51,752 | $30,000 | 0.75 |
 King's CollegeWilkes-Barre | $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-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.