Psychology at University of South Carolina Beaufort

USC Beaufort's psychology program shows a troubling start—graduates earn just $25,523 in their first year, landing in the 5th percentile nationally and well below the state median of $27,532. The debt load of $27,000 exceeds that first-year salary, creating immediate financial strain. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these figures might not reflect typical outcomes, and individual results could vary significantly.

The dramatic 66% earnings jump to $42,239 by year four offers some reassurance, ultimately surpassing both state and national benchmarks. This suggests graduates find their footing after an extended adjustment period. Still, that four-year timeline to reach competitive earnings is longer than ideal, especially when top psychology programs in South Carolina like Charleston Southern and Wofford place graduates at $34,000+ from the start.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your student can weather those difficult first years financially. If living at home or having parental support during the initial post-grad period is feasible, the eventual earnings make the investment reasonable. But if they'll need to be financially independent immediately after graduation, this program's slow start presents real challenges worth weighing against other South Carolina options with stronger early outcomes.