Research and Experimental Psychology at Vassar College

A psychology degree from one of the country's most selective colleges should translate into better outcomes, but Vassar's numbers tell a sobering story. At $34,361 first-year out, graduates earn less than the New York state median for this program ($38,622) and land in just the 40th percentile among psychology programs statewide. That's roughly $19,000 less than what Columbia psychology grads earn and nearly $7,500 below Hamilton College.

The debt load itself is reasonable at $19,000—below both state and national medians—which keeps the financial risk contained. The 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates could theoretically pay off loans in about 7 months of gross income, assuming aggressive repayment. Still, the broader picture raises questions about whether Vassar's 18% admission rate and prestige translate into tangible career advantages for psychology majors specifically.

For families paying significant tuition at a selective private college, these outcomes suggest that institutional reputation doesn't automatically boost early career earnings in psychology. If your child is set on psychology and aiming for direct entry into the workforce, understanding why Vassar grads trail their New York peers—despite comparable or stronger academic credentials—matters. The program may excel at graduate school placement rather than immediate employment, but that's a conversation worth having before committing to this path.