Psychology at University of Saint Mary
Bachelor's Degree
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
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 Saint Mary graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Saint Mary graduates earn $31k, placing them in the 47th 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 Kansas
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (25 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Saint Mary | $31,177 | $31,941 | $31,000 | 0.99 |
| Fort Hays State University | $40,009 | $40,608 | $29,000 | 0.72 |
| Ottawa University-Kansas City | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 |
| Ottawa University-Online | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 |
| Ottawa University-Ottawa | $39,596 | — | $27,562 | 0.70 |
| Washburn University | $38,264 | $37,297 | $25,249 | 0.66 |
| National Median | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Other Psychology Programs in Kansas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kansas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Hays State University Hays | $5,633 | $40,009 | $29,000 |
| Ottawa University-Kansas City Overland Park | — | $39,596 | $27,562 |
| Ottawa University-Online Overland Park | — | $39,596 | $27,562 |
| Ottawa University-Ottawa Ottawa | $35,300 | $39,596 | $27,562 |
| Washburn University Topeka | $9,578 | $38,264 | $25,249 |
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.