Rankings / Social Mobility

Best Social Mobility Colleges for Psychology

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$82,448

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$19,477

Avg. Net Price

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When considering colleges, especially for programs in psychology, social mobility is a crucial factor for many families. These schools are ranked not just by prestige but by how well they elevate students from various backgrounds into rewarding careers. For instance, graduates from the top-ranked institutions can expect earnings averaging over $85,000.

The strongest colleges on this list excel in key areas like graduation rates, debt levels, and potential earnings. These metrics provide a clearer picture of how well a college prepares its students for life after graduation. For example, the schools here report graduation rates as high as 97%, which suggests a supportive environment that helps students succeed.

Consider Stanford University and Rice University. Stanford leads with average earnings of $124,080, while Rice graduates earn about $89,718. Although both provide strong educational foundations, the stark difference in earnings reflects varying opportunities and outcomes in the psychology field. This kind of data is essential for families weighing their options.

Key Findings

Stanford University graduates earn an average of $124,080, the highest on this list.

University of Pennsylvania boasts a staggering 97% graduation rate.

Rice University has the lowest average debt among the top schools at $11,000.

The average earnings for graduates from these top psychology programs is $85,034.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $82,448

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $19,477

Avg. median debt $15,252

How We Ranked

Ranked by social mobility with program concentration in Psychology

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY

Graduation59%

Earnings$63,163

Net Price$2,984

View full profile →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 4% acceptance rate, Stanford University attracts some of the brightest minds from around the globe. The campus in Silicon Valley not only fosters innovation but also supports a diverse community, with 19% of students receiving Pell Grants, indicating strong financial aid resources for low-income students.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

Situated in the heart of New York City, CUNY Hunter College is a public institution that serves over 16,000 students. With a graduation rate of 59%, it offers a vibrant urban experience filled with opportunities and challenges for students who are ready to make an impact. The acceptance rate of 54% allows for a diverse student body, making it a great fit for various backgrounds and aspirations.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is renowned for its rigorous academic environment, attracting intellectually curious students from all walks of life. With a graduation rate of 95%, it fosters a culture of critical thinking and debate, appealing to those who thrive in challenging settings, including 15% of students who receive Pell Grants.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College is a bustling public institution located in the diverse borough of Queens, NY, serving over 12,500 students. Despite a graduation rate of 56%, the college is known for its affordability and accessibility, with an acceptance rate of 64%. This makes it an inviting option for a wide range of students.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania combines Ivy League prestige with an emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. With a graduation rate of 97%, it’s clear that most students find the support they need to succeed, including resources for the 17% of students who receive Pell Grants.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a striking 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $89,718 ten years post-graduation, Rice University in Houston, Texas, presents a compelling option for students seeking a strong return on their educational investment. The school's intimate environment, with just 4,776 students, encourages close relationships with faculty and peers, fostering an engaged academic community where students can thrive.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College is a bustling hub in New York City, attracting a diverse student population eager to make their mark in a competitive environment. With a graduation rate of 72%, the college provides numerous resources to help students navigate their academic path and succeed in the workforce.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located in Wellesley, MA, has long been a respected institution for women seeking a top-notch liberal arts education. The college boasts a graduation rate of 91%, reflecting its commitment to empowering women and preparing them for leadership roles.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, is a unique blend of rigorous academics and a vibrant campus culture, attracting a diverse student body of 15,995. Its 95% graduation rate paired with a median earning of $104,043 ten years after graduation indicates that graduates are well-prepared for successful careers across various fields, making it a strong contender for ambitious students.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#10

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is synonymous with academic excellence and historic significance. With a graduation rate of 97%, it’s a place where ambitious students, including 16% who receive Pell Grants, can thrive in a supportive yet challenging environment.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#11

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College offers an accessible education in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, with an acceptance rate of 58%. While its graduation rate of 55% may raise questions, the college serves a diverse student body of over 10,500 individuals, many of whom are first-generation college students pursuing their dreams in an urban environment.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University is located in Nashville, TN, where students not only engage with a vibrant campus life but also enjoy access to a city known for its music and culture. With a graduation rate of 93%, it's clear that students are supported throughout their educational journey, leading to impressive outcomes in their careers.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#13

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, students engage in a flexible curriculum that encourages exploration and interdisciplinary learning. With a graduation rate of 96% and median earnings of $93,487 ten years post-graduation, Brown fosters an environment where students can pursue their passions while preparing for successful careers.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, welcomes 6,442 students into a vibrant campus life centered around academic excellence and social engagement. The impressive 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $97,800 ten years after graduation reflect the opportunities available to its graduates, making Duke a strong candidate for those looking to make meaningful career strides after college.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the serene setting of Williamstown, MA, Williams College fosters an environment where academic rigor meets close-knit community values. With a graduation rate of 95%, students here benefit from a collaborative atmosphere that emphasizes support and engagement, leading to strong post-college outcomes.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

#16

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

Washington University in St. Louis attracts serious students with a graduation rate of 94% and a strong reputation for academic excellence. The median earnings for graduates ten years after graduation reach $86,182, indicating a solid return on the investment in education. The school fosters an environment where students thrive academically and personally.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice is a unique option for those interested in law enforcement, criminal justice, and public service. Despite a lower graduation rate of 56%, the college serves a diverse student body of over 11,000, and its urban setting in New York City offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on experience in the field.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 91%, the University of Florida has built a strong reputation for student success. Located in the vibrant city of Gainesville, this public university is home to over 35,000 students who thrive in its diverse academic environment. Graduates can expect median earnings of $71,588 at ten years post-graduation, showcasing the value of a Florida degree in the job market.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#19

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, is a place where students find a strong support system and a vibrant community. The median earnings for graduates ten years after enrollment reach $97,434, suggesting that a degree from this private nonprofit can lead to substantial financial returns in the long run.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#20

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled just outside Chicago, Northwestern University combines a strong academic reputation with a vibrant campus culture. With a graduation rate of 96%, this private nonprofit institution supports its students in achieving their goals. Graduates see median earnings of $89,363 at ten years, indicating that a degree from Northwestern can pay off significantly in the long run.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#21

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, Maine, attracts students with its strong commitment to liberal arts education and close-knit community of just over 2,400 students. The college boasts an impressive graduation rate of 89%, showcasing its dedication to student success and personal development in a scenic New England setting.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University sits in the heart of New York City, right in the middle of one of the world's most dynamic urban settings. With a graduation rate of 96%, students here can expect rigorous academics and a wealth of opportunities for networking and internships. Graduates report median earnings of $102,491 at ten years, illustrating the advantage of a Columbia degree in a competitive job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#23

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is a renowned private institution with a small student body of about 6,758. The college's 96% graduation rate speaks to its commitment to student success and the resources available to help students achieve their academic goals. With median earnings of $100,533 for graduates ten years post-enrollment, Yale graduates are well-equipped for high-paying careers in various fields.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Pomona College offers a unique blend of small class sizes and high academic standards, with a graduation rate of 93% and just 1,666 students. Located in Claremont, California, this private college emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to explore diverse fields while forming lasting relationships with professors and peers.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#25

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, with a graduation rate of 94%, cultivates an intimate learning environment with just 1,911 students. This private nonprofit institution is known for its rigorous academics and close-knit community, which fosters meaningful connections between students and faculty, enhancing the educational experience.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#26

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

In the picturesque town of Brunswick, Maine, Bowdoin College offers an intimate learning environment with a student body of just under 1,900. With a graduation rate of 95%, students benefit from a supportive community that fosters their academic and personal growth. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $82,735 after ten years, reflecting the college's strong academic programs and the successful career paths its alumni pursue.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#27

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

Davidson College offers a close-knit community with a focus on liberal arts education, attracting students who are passionate about learning. The college has a 91% graduation rate and median earnings of $81,400 after ten years, reflecting its commitment to academic excellence and student success in diverse career paths.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#28

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

With a 93% graduation rate and median earnings of $104,736 ten years post-graduation, Claremont McKenna College is a compelling choice for students focused on strong career outcomes. Located in sunny Claremont, California, this private nonprofit school emphasizes economics, government, and public affairs, giving students a solid foundation for leadership roles in various fields.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#29

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx serves a diverse student body with a 57% acceptance rate, making it a welcoming choice for many. While the graduation rate stands at 50%, the college is focused on supporting students through their academic journey, leveraging its location and community ties to foster growth and engagement.

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, with its intimate setting and a student body of just 1,430, fosters deep connections and academic rigor among its students. The college prides itself on its 90% graduation rate, which reflects a strong commitment to student success and the close-knit community that supports it.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#31

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, a private nonprofit institution, achieves an impressive 94% graduation rate with a small student body of just 1,881. Located in the picturesque town of Lexington, Virginia, the university fosters a close-knit community where students benefit from personalized attention. Graduates earn a median income of $94,810 at ten years, reflecting the strong return on investment for a degree from this institution.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#32

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#33

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University is known for its intimate learning environment with just 3,180 students, leading to a high graduation rate of 91%. Graduates can expect to earn a median income of $85,139 in their tenth year, reflecting the university's commitment to student success and career readiness.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#34

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University features a graduation rate of 82%, an impressive figure for a private institution. The vibrant campus life in Provo, Utah, combined with a strong sense of community, makes it a welcoming place for students looking to engage both academically and socially.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#35

Bay Path University

Longmeadow, MA · 1,108 students · Private nonprofit

85% accepted 51% graduate $55,383 earnings

Boston College

Chestnut Hill, MA · 10,085 students · Private nonprofit

Boston College welcomes 10,085 students into a rich academic tradition with a graduation rate of 91%. The potential for earnings post-graduation is notable, with median salaries reaching $103,937 ten years later, highlighting the strong career trajectories available to graduates.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#37

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Emory University in Atlanta has a strong track record of helping students complete their degrees. The diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life attract a wide range of students, creating a community that values both academic rigor and personal growth. Many students find themselves thriving in this environment, leading to impressive post-graduation outcomes.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

At Georgetown University, students gain access to a prestigious education in the heart of Washington, DC, with a 95% graduation rate and median earnings of $103,494 after ten years. The university’s strong connections to government, international relations, and business provide a unique environment for students looking to make an impact in their fields.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#39

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#40

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#42

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College, located in Lewiston, Maine, cultivates a close-knit community with just 1,760 students, allowing for personalized attention and a collaborative learning experience. The 90% graduation rate highlights the support students receive throughout their academic journey. Here, students engage deeply with their studies and each other, which can lead to rich, lasting connections and a strong sense of belonging.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#44

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#45

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#46

CUNY York College

Jamaica, NY · 4,345 students · Public

64% accepted 31% graduate $56,945 earnings

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#48

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#49

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

Looking at the data, we see a clear pattern: Stanford University outperforms Rice University in terms of earnings, with graduates making $124,080 compared to Rice's $89,718. The tradeoff, however, is in the net price; Stanford’s net cost is $13,807, while Rice's is slightly lower at $13,370. This indicates that while Stanford offers higher earning potential, the financial burden is comparable between the two.

As you sift through this list of 50 schools, think about your priorities. Are you leaning towards a school close to home, or is a particular campus vibe more important? Weigh the financial aspects against factors like program fit or location. Each student's path is unique, and what works for one may not suit another.

Ultimately, these figures highlight the importance of making informed choices. A family's decision about college can shape not just educational outcomes, but future economic stability. For many, investing in a school that prioritizes social mobility and successful career placement can mean the difference between struggling to get by and thriving in their chosen field.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

Chetty, R., Jackson, M., Kuchler, T., et al. (2022). Social Capital I: Measurement and Associations with Economic Mobility. Nature, 608, 108-121. →

[3]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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