Psychology at Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State's psychology program lands squarely in the middle of North Carolina schools but trails the national field significantly. First-year earnings of $25,637 place graduates in just the 5th percentile nationally, roughly $6,000 below the national median for psychology majors. The good news: this program sits at the 40th percentile within North Carolina, meaning it's performing about average for the state despite the low national ranking. The debt load of $27,375 is relatively typical, creating a manageable 1.07 debt-to-earnings ratio in year one.

The earnings trajectory offers some optimism—graduates see 37% income growth by year four, reaching $35,121. That puts them closer to (though still below) North Carolina's top programs. Given that 61% of students here receive Pell grants, this program serves predominantly first-generation and lower-income students who may have limited alternatives. The moderate sample size suggests consistent program outcomes.

For families weighing this option, understand you're looking at below-average starting salaries that improve meaningfully over time. If your child is committed to psychology and this represents an affordable in-state option, the debt burden won't be crushing. However, UNC Chapel Hill's psychology program—another public option—delivers significantly stronger outcomes at $31,804 in year one. The gap narrows over time, but if admission to a stronger NC program is possible, that investment would pay dividends immediately after graduation.