Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Psychology

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

Schools Analyzed

$82,676

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

87%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,207

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college for psychology can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options. But focusing on schools with strong return on investment (ROI) can help narrow down the choices. For instance, graduates from the best ROI colleges for psychology earn an average of $85,341, which provides a solid foundation for financial stability after graduation.

What sets these top schools apart is their impressive combination of high graduation rates, manageable debt levels, and strong post-college earnings. The institutions on our list not only prepare students academically but also position them for success in the job market. As you look at the schools below, consider how earnings potential and debt influence the overall value of a psychology degree.

Take Stanford University and the University of Pennsylvania, for example. Stanford boasts the highest earnings at $124,080, alongside a commendable graduation rate of 92%. In contrast, the University of Pennsylvania, while also strong with a graduation rate of 97%, has a lower earnings figure at $111,371 and a higher net price of $28,699. Understanding these differences can help you prioritize what's most important for your educational journey.

Key Findings

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

The average graduation rate for these schools is 88%, indicating strong program completion.

University of Pennsylvania has a net price of $28,699, the highest among the top five.

Rice University graduates have an average debt of only $11,000, the lowest in this group.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $82,676

Avg. graduation rate 87%

Avg. net price $20,207

Avg. median debt $15,155

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment 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 →

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL

Graduation95%

Earnings$91,885

Net Price$14,860

View full profile →

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

Graduation97%

Earnings$101,817

Net Price$19,066

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Stanford University in California is known for its rigorous academic environment and exceptional resources. The $124,080 median earnings at 10 years post-graduation signal a strong return on investment, making it an enticing option for students focused on their future career prospects.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

University of Chicago

Chicago, IL · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Chicago is a hub for intellectual exploration, attracting students who are passionate about learning. With a graduation rate of 95%, it’s clear that students find the support they need to succeed, leading to impressive median earnings of $91,885 ten years after graduation.

4% accepted 95% graduate $91,885 earnings

University's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate, Harvard University in Cambridge, MA, attracts students from all walks of life, fostering a diverse and intellectually vibrant community. The median earnings of $101,817 at ten years post-graduation illustrate the strong return on investment that comes with a Harvard degree, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared to excel in their chosen fields.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, is known for its commitment to excellence, reflected in a 95% graduation rate. The university's rich history and beautiful campus provide an inspiring environment for students interested in a wide range of fields, from agriculture to engineering to the arts.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston fosters an intimate learning environment with just 4,776 students, contributing to a 95% graduation rate. With median earnings of $89,718 at ten years, graduates are well-prepared for the job market, making it an attractive choice for ambitious students.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Philadelphia, the University of Pennsylvania offers a rich mix of academic rigor and vibrant campus life. With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, students here not only excel but also enjoy median earnings of $111,371 at the ten-year mark, demonstrating strong career outcomes for graduates.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, a women’s college in Wellesley, MA, has a graduation rate of 91% and a focus on empowering young women to lead in a complex world. With a small student body of 2,300, Wellesley offers an intimate learning environment where close relationships with professors can flourish, enhancing the overall educational experience.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

At Williams College in Williamstown, MA, the intimate learning environment fosters close relationships between students and faculty, which is reflected in a graduation rate of 95%. Graduates enjoy a median earning of $88,665 at ten years, suggesting that the education received here equips them with skills that are highly valued in the job market.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University in Providence, RI, is known for its unique open curriculum that empowers students to shape their own educational journeys. This flexibility is reflected in its impressive 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $93,487 at ten years, signaling that graduates find meaningful work and success in their careers.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, has a robust community committed to academic excellence. Students here enjoy a vibrant campus culture enriched by the city's music scene and diverse activities, making it a great place for both study and personal growth.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#11

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, located in Durham, NC, captivates students with its strong emphasis on research and community engagement, contributing to a graduation rate of 96%. The median earnings of $97,800 at ten years post-graduation highlight the university’s robust connections to various industries, preparing graduates to excel in their careers and make a difference in the world.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

Queens College is known for its welcoming environment and commitment to accessibility, drawing in a diverse student body eager to learn and succeed. While the graduation rate of 56% may seem lower than some peers, many students find that the supportive community here helps them flourish academically and personally.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

New York, NY · 16,154 students · Public

CUNY Bernard M. Baruch College in New York City is a bustling hub for over 16,000 students, making it a great choice for those who thrive in diverse and urban settings. Graduating 72% of its students, Baruch focuses on equipping students with the skills needed for a competitive job market, as evidenced by median earnings of $75,971 ten years post-graduation.

48% accepted 72% graduate $75,971 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College offers a unique educational experience in the heart of New York City, making it an attractive option for students seeking urban experiences and diverse perspectives. However, the college faces challenges, as evidenced by its graduation rate of only 59%. With 16,289 students, Hunter is one of the largest public colleges in the city, providing a vibrant yet complex atmosphere for student engagement.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis welcomes 7,857 students into a vibrant academic community known for its commitment to research and innovation. With a 94% graduation rate, the university creates an environment where students are equipped to succeed and make an impact in their fields.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#16

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida in Gainesville is a large public university with a graduation rate of 91%. With over 35,000 students, it offers a lively campus atmosphere and a wide variety of programs, making it an attractive option for those looking for a vibrant college experience while studying in sunny Florida.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#17

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the heart of Amherst, Massachusetts, Amherst College boasts a close-knit environment with just 1,911 students. The college's impressive 94% graduation rate speaks volumes about the dedication and resources available to students. Graduates can expect to earn around $77,644 a decade after leaving, equipping them for varied and successful careers.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#18

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, Maine, is an intimate community with 2,407 students, where a striking 89% of students graduate. The school emphasizes a well-rounded education, encouraging cross-disciplinary studies and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for a range of careers. Median earnings for graduates reach $80,490 after ten years, reflecting the value of a Colby degree in the job market.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Pomona College

Claremont, CA · 1,666 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Claremont, California, Pomona College is a small liberal arts school with 1,666 students dedicated to academic excellence and social engagement. An impressive 93% graduation rate highlights the supportive and challenging environment that fuels students' success. The ten-year median earnings for graduates stand at $77,779, showcasing the strong outcomes tied to a Pomona education.

7% accepted 93% graduate $77,779 earnings

Pomona's full profile

#20

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College is a small liberal arts college in Brunswick, ME, with just 1,873 students, creating an intimate academic setting. Its 95% graduation rate reflects a strong commitment to student success, where faculty and peer support play a crucial role in shaping futures.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#21

Yale University

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

Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, is not just an institution; it's a vibrant community of thinkers and innovators. With a remarkable 96% graduation rate, Yale supports its 6,758 students in achieving their academic and professional dreams. Graduates earn a median salary of $100,533 a decade after leaving, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on preparing students for impactful careers.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University is located in Evanston, Illinois, and has a vibrant community of over 9,200 students. With an impressive graduation rate of 96%, it's clear that students here are supported and engaged. The median earnings for graduates reach $89,363 after ten years, indicating strong career outcomes that attract ambitious individuals seeking to make their mark.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#23

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH, creates an environment where students thrive both academically and socially. The close-knit community of 4,541 students fosters deep connections, and the picturesque campus encourages exploration and collaboration.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#24

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University is located in the heart of New York City, giving students access to a vibrant urban environment that can enhance both academic and professional opportunities. With a graduation rate of 96%, it's clear that students here are dedicated and supported, leading to strong outcomes after they leave campus.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#25

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

Brooklyn College stands as a beacon of opportunity in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York, with a diverse student body of over 10,500. Despite a graduation rate of 55%, the college serves a large population of students with varied backgrounds, and its affordability makes it an attractive option for many. Median earnings at 10 years post-graduation reach $60,752, reflecting the potential for upward mobility in the workforce.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Washington and Lee University, located in Lexington, Virginia, is known for its rigorous academics and a tight community of 1,881 students. The school boasts a 94% graduation rate, which reflects its strong support systems in place to help students succeed. With median earnings reaching $94,810 a decade after graduation, students here are set up for impressive career trajectories.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#27

Davidson College

Davidson, NC · 1,867 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 91%, Davidson College emphasizes academic excellence and student support, helping nearly all of its students achieve their degrees. Located in Davidson, North Carolina, this private nonprofit institution has a tight-knit community with just 1,867 students, allowing for personalized attention and meaningful connections among peers and faculty alike.

13% accepted 91% graduate $81,400 earnings

Davidson's full profile

#28

Claremont McKenna College

Claremont, CA · 1,388 students · Private nonprofit

Claremont McKenna College, nestled in sunny Claremont, California, combines a strong liberal arts education with a focus on economics and government. With a graduation rate of 93% and a small student body of 1,388, you'll find a supportive environment where relationships with faculty can foster both academic and personal growth.

10% accepted 93% graduate $104,736 earnings

Claremont's full profile

#29

Haverford College

Haverford, PA · 1,430 students · Private nonprofit

Haverford College, located in a charming suburban area of Pennsylvania, is home to a close-knit community of 1,430 students who prioritize academic rigor and social responsibility. With a graduation rate of 90%, Haverford fosters an environment where students thrive both academically and personally, often leading to impressive median earnings of $79,966 ten years after graduation.

12% accepted 90% graduate $79,966 earnings

Haverford's full profile

#30

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University, with a tight-knit community of just over 3,000 students, emphasizes a liberal arts education that prepares graduates for various fields. The graduation rate is high at 91%, and median earnings of $85,139 ten years post-graduation speak to the value of a Colgate degree in the job market, reflecting strong outcomes for its graduates.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#31

CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice

New York, NY · 11,590 students · Public

In the heart of New York City, CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice focuses on criminal justice and public service, attracting students passionate about making a difference. With around 60% of its students receiving Pell Grants, this school is committed to accessibility and diversity, creating a community where a range of experiences and backgrounds come together.

57% accepted 56% graduate $56,195 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College is a small liberal arts school with a big impact, home to just over 1,600 students who engage deeply in their education. With a 93% graduation rate and a strong focus on social responsibility, Swarthmore fosters an environment where academic excellence and community engagement go hand in hand, reflected in the impressive median earnings of $80,257 ten years post-graduation.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#33

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, is home to 1,760 students who enjoy a close-knit community and a graduation rate of 90%. Known for its commitment to the liberal arts, Bates encourages critical thinking and collaboration, making it an appealing choice for students who thrive in engaging, discussion-driven environments.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

William & Mary

Williamsburg, VA · 7,055 students · Public

William & Mary, nestled in historic Williamsburg, Virginia, is known for its rigorous academics and vibrant student life. With a graduation rate of 90%, students are supported in their pursuit of knowledge, leading to strong outcomes such as median earnings of $73,490 a decade after graduation, illustrating the school's commitment to student success and post-college opportunities.

34% accepted 90% graduate $73,490 earnings

William's full profile

#35

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, showcases a strong graduation rate of 91% across its 7,298 students, indicating an environment where learners are engaged and supported. This private university combines rigorous academics with a vibrant campus life, making it a compelling choice for students looking to excel both in and out of the classroom.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#38

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#39

Barnard College

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

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#40

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#42

Georgetown University

Washington, DC · 7,569 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Washington, DC, Georgetown University has an impressive graduation rate of 95% among its 7,569 students, reflecting its commitment to student success. The university’s prime location offers unique opportunities for internships and networking in the nation’s capital, making it a strong option for students interested in politics, international relations, and social justice.

13% accepted 95% graduate $103,494 earnings

Georgetown's full profile

#43

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Situated in Middletown, Connecticut, Wesleyan University is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and small, close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 92%, students receive not only a well-rounded education but also a supportive environment that fosters academic success. The intimate size of the student body encourages collaboration and friendships among diverse peers.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#44

Boston College

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

Located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, Boston College offers a blend of academic excellence and a strong sense of community. The school's graduation rate of 91% speaks to its supportive environment, while graduates' median earnings of $103,937 ten years after earning their degree underscore the strong return on investment for students pursuing various career paths.

16% accepted 91% graduate $103,937 earnings

Boston's full profile

#45

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#46

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#47

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#48

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#49

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#50

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

While both Stanford University and Harvard University offer robust psychology programs, their financial outcomes differ significantly. Stanford has an impressive average earnings figure of $124,080 compared to Harvard's $101,817. This disparity highlights how one school can provide a better financial return despite similar prestige.

As you sift through our list, think about your priorities. Consider factors like location, campus culture, and financial aid offers. Weigh these elements against the data provided here. For example, if you prefer a lower debt burden, Rice University may be appealing, while those seeking higher earnings might lean towards Stanford.

Ultimately, the choices we make about college can shape our paths to stability and success. Finding a school that aligns with both financial goals and personal values is crucial. For one family, this means choosing a school with lower debt and higher earnings potential, ensuring their child has a solid start in life after graduation.

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]

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

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

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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