Analysis
Wofford's psychology program outperforms most South Carolina alternatives, placing in the 80th percentile statewide—a meaningful achievement given that the typical psychology graduate in the state earns just $27,532. At $34,429 first-year, Wofford graduates earn roughly $7,000 more than the South Carolina median, putting them neck-and-neck with programs at Charleston Southern and North Greenville. The $25,763 debt load is slightly below the state median, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.75.
The practical concern here is one shared across psychology generally: these earnings figures make independent living tight in year one. However, Wofford's stronger-than-average outcomes suggest better access to opportunities—whether that's competitive graduate school placement or entry-level positions that value the college's academic reputation. The 73rd percentile national ranking reinforces that this isn't just a South Carolina story; Wofford holds its own against psychology programs nationwide.
For families already considering Wofford, the psychology program performs solidly. The debt is reasonable, the relative earnings advantage over state peers is real, and the small liberal arts environment may provide mentorship that pays off in career placement. Just understand that psychology bachelor's earnings start modest everywhere—this program simply positions graduates better than most in-state options for whatever comes next, whether that's the workforce or graduate school.
Where Wofford College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all psychology bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Wofford College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Psychology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (29 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54,100 | $34,429 | — | $25,763 | 0.75 | |
| $31,030 | $35,364 | $37,652 | $27,000 | 0.76 | |
| $24,650 | $34,044 | $32,086 | $23,250 | 0.68 | |
| $15,554 | $32,146 | $46,792 | $22,687 | 0.71 | |
| $10,760 | $31,121 | $38,907 | $27,000 | 0.87 | |
| $11,583 | $29,720 | $34,695 | $27,000 | 0.91 | |
| National Median | — | $31,482 | — | $25,500 | 0.81 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with psychology graduates
Industrial-Organizational Psychologists
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists
Psychologists, All Other
Neuropsychologists
Clinical Neuropsychologists
Psychology Teachers, Postsecondary
Managers, All Other
Loss Prevention Managers
Social Science Research Assistants
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 Wofford College, approximately 15% 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 30 graduates with reported earnings and 36 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.