Psychology at Wichita State University

Wichita State's psychology program positions graduates squarely in the middle nationally but trails behind other Kansas options—ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide. While first-year earnings of $32,275 beat the national median by about $800, they fall roughly $4,000 short of what Kansas psychology graduates typically earn. For context, Fort Hays State and several Ottawa University campuses place their psychology graduates at earnings 20-25% higher within the same state market.

The financial fundamentals are manageable: at $27,000 in median debt and a 0.84 debt-to-earnings ratio, graduates aren't taking on crushing loads. The program also shows decent debt discipline, with borrowing amounts landing in the 25th percentile nationally. Earnings growth of 19% over four years suggests graduates find their footing, though that $38,402 four-year mark still lags the state's norms for the field.

For Kansas families, this creates a straightforward calculation. If Wichita State offers location advantages or significantly lower net costs than higher-performing in-state alternatives, the accessible debt levels make it workable. But purely on earnings outcomes, other Kansas public universities are putting their psychology graduates in stronger positions without requiring dramatically different credentials—Wichita State's 95% admission rate and modest test scores suggest it's not selectivity driving the earnings gap. Compare net costs carefully before committing.