Psychology Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of human behavior, mental processes, and emotional functioning.
Starting Salary
$42K
median
Mid-Career
$65K
salary
ROI Payback
6 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4%
rate
Psychology Overview
Study of human behavior, mental processes, and emotional functioning.
Category
Social Sciences
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
65%
Enrollment Trend
stable
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
35%
Lifetime Premium
$320K
Female Graduates
75%
Psychology Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$17,100
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$17,100
after scholarships
ROI Payback
2 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$302,900
Lifetime earnings premium ($320,000) minus net degree cost ($17,100)
Psychology Salary Progression
Common Psychology Careers
Psychologist
Counselor
Research Associate
HR Specialist
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Psychology
#1
Stanford
#2
Harvard
#3
Yale
#4
University of Michigan
#5
UCLA
Related Majors
Psychology Degree FAQ
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