Analysis
Psychology graduates from the University of Saint Mary earn significantly less than typical Kansas psychology majors—about $5,400 below the state median and landing in just the 40th percentile statewide. While their $31,000 debt load is actually lower than many Kansas programs ($27,281 state median), the combination of below-average earnings and moderate debt creates a nearly 1:1 debt-to-earnings ratio. Compare this to Fort Hays State or Washburn graduates, who earn $8,000-9,000 more annually with similar debt burdens.
The minimal earnings growth—just 3% over four years—suggests graduates may struggle to advance financially in their early careers. This is concerning for a field where many need graduate degrees to increase earning potential, as these bachelor's-level outcomes don't provide much financial runway for further education. The high admission rate and below-average SAT scores indicate this isn't a highly selective program, which sometimes correlates with weaker career outcomes.
One important caveat: the sample size here is small (under 30 graduates), so these numbers could shift significantly year to year. However, even accounting for that uncertainty, this program would need to dramatically outperform to reach the earnings of Kansas peers. If your child is set on psychology and wants to stay in Kansas, programs like Fort Hays State offer 30% higher earnings for roughly the same investment.
Where University of Saint Mary Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Saint Mary 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 Saint Mary | $31,177 | $31,941 | +2% |
| University of Kansas | $36,913 | $43,397 | +18% |
| Emporia State University | $35,389 | $43,053 | +22% |
| Benedictine College | $28,149 | $42,224 | +50% |
| Fort Hays State University | $40,009 | $40,608 | +1% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (25 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,890 | $31,177 | $31,941 | $31,000 | 0.99 | |
| $5,633 | $40,009 | $40,608 | $29,000 | 0.72 | |
| — | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 | |
| — | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 | |
| $35,300 | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 | |
| $9,578 | $38,264 | $37,297 | $25,249 | 0.66 | |
| 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 Saint Mary, approximately 37% 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 18 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.