Median Earnings (1yr)
$38,937
95th percentile
Median Debt
$27,667
3% above national median

Analysis

Wilmington University's Behavioral Sciences program outperforms 95% of similar programs nationwide—a standout achievement that translates to graduates earning about $3,500 more than the typical behavioral sciences graduate elsewhere. While state-level comparisons are limited (this is Delaware's only bachelor's program in this field), the real story is how this program stacks up against the national landscape. Starting salaries of $38,937 beat even the 75th percentile nationally, and earnings climb to $43,432 by year four, showing steady career progression rather than stagnation.

The debt picture is equally reassuring. At $27,667, borrowing sits right at the national median for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71—well within manageable territory. With 12% earnings growth over four years, graduates are moving in the right direction financially. The moderate sample size means these outcomes reflect actual student experiences, not a statistical fluke.

For parents evaluating this program, the math works. Your child would enter a field where Wilmington graduates demonstrably outperform their peers nationwide, with borrowing that doesn't compromise their financial future. This is what you want from a bachelor's degree: competitive starting pay that improves over time, paired with debt that's proportional to those earnings.

Where Wilmington University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all behavioral sciences bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Wilmington University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

School1 Year4 YearsGrowth
Wilmington University$38,937$43,432+12%
Concordia University-Irvine$31,899$49,240+54%
George Fox University$34,613$47,713+38%
University of Kansas$36,206$42,992+19%
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay$33,439$39,560+18%

Compare to Similar Programs Nationally

Behavioral Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Wilmington UniversityNew Castle$12,330$38,937$43,432$27,6670.71
Franklin and Marshall CollegeLancaster$68,380$38,391$19,0000.49
University of Phoenix-ArizonaPhoenix$9,552$38,087$37,783$49,7701.31
University of Phoenix-CaliforniaOntario$38,087$37,783$49,7701.31
University of Phoenix-NevadaLas Vegas$38,087$37,783$49,7701.31
University of Phoenix-TexasDallas$38,087$37,783$49,7701.31
National Median$35,410$26,9440.76

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with behavioral sciences graduates

Psychologists, All Other

All psychologists not listed separately.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Neuropsychologists

Apply theories and principles of neuropsychology to evaluate and diagnose disorders of higher cerebral functioning, often in research and medical settings. Study the human brain and the effect of physiological states on human cognition and behavior. May formulate and administer programs of treatment.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Clinical Neuropsychologists

Assess and diagnose patients with neurobehavioral problems related to acquired or developmental disorders of the nervous system, such as neurodegenerative disorders, traumatic brain injury, seizure disorders, and learning disabilities. Recommend treatment after diagnosis, such as therapy, medication, or surgery. Assist with evaluation before and after neurosurgical procedures, such as deep brain stimulation.

$94,310/yrJobs growth:

Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in psychology, such as child, clinical, and developmental psychology, and psychological counseling. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Social and Community Service Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.

$78,240/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Life Scientists, All Other

All life scientists not listed separately.

Social Scientists and Related Workers, All Other

All social scientists and related workers not listed separately.

Social Science Research Assistants

Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.

Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other

All community and social service specialists not listed separately.

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Wilmington University, approximately 26% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 85 graduates with reported earnings and 117 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.