Psychology at University of the Cumberlands

University of the Cumberlands graduates earn $36,913 in their first year—outperforming 89% of psychology programs nationally and 80% within Kentucky, where the typical graduate makes just $28,790. This is impressive for a school with a 71% admission rate serving a largely Pell-eligible student body. The $21,750 median debt sits well below both state and national averages, translating to a manageable 0.59 debt-to-earnings ratio. Among Kentucky schools, only Spalding and Northern Kentucky place graduates into higher-paying positions.

The concerning element is that earnings actually decline slightly by year four, dropping to $35,801. This 3% dip is unusual and suggests graduates may hit an early ceiling in their careers, though the moderate sample size means individual circumstances could skew this figure. Still, even at the four-year mark, these graduates outpace most Kentucky psychology programs.

For families weighing the investment, this program delivers strong placement relative to both state and national peers while keeping debt reasonable. The earnings trajectory bears watching, but the combination of above-average starting salaries and below-average debt makes this a solid choice for students planning to work in Kentucky's job market after graduation.