Behavioral Sciences at Whitman College

A $26,865 debt load paired with first-year earnings around $35,410 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.76—but these figures come from national peer programs, not tracked outcomes from Whitman's behavioral sciences graduates specifically. The estimates suggest a relatively conservative debt burden compared to what you'd see at many institutions, though the earnings side reflects the reality that behavioral sciences typically requires graduate study for stronger career outcomes. The debt figure here is actually drawn from other programs at Whitman (where small cohort sizes prevent the Department of Education from publishing specific data), while earnings estimates come from similar behavioral sciences programs nationally.

What matters most is whether this program positions your student for their next step. Whitman's 1365 average SAT score and selective profile suggest strong graduate school placement, which is crucial since most behavioral sciences careers require additional credentials. If your student plans on a master's or doctorate, this relatively modest debt load leaves more borrowing capacity for advanced degrees. But if they're planning to enter the workforce immediately after graduation, peer programs suggest starting salaries that make loan repayment workable but won't support lavish spending—expect about 11% of monthly income to go toward standard loan payments.

Given the data limitations, look closely at Whitman's track record for graduate school admissions and professional placement in your student's specific area of interest within behavioral sciences. That context matters more than these broad estimates.