Psychology at Ball State University

Muncie, IN · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Psychology, General
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
38
Optimistic
38
Base Case
37
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,305/yr (-1% vs median)
AI Risk High (49% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (125,000 openings/yr)
ROI 11.8x earnings multiple (4.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #318 of 926 Psychology, General programs Top 50%

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Psychology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $508K $507K $473K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.8x 11.8x 11.0x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.4x 4.4x 4.1x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 47% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 38 37

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,032
Out-of-state: $115,064 (4.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$63,592
-48% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,364
8.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$47,499
52% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $31,305/yr, Psychology graduates from Ball State University land near the $31,705 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 11.8x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Psychology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,364 against $31,305/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #318 ranking among 926 Psychology programs places Ball State University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

The $31,305-to-$47,499 earnings arc over five years reflects a 52% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Ball State University

With 72% of applicants admitted, Ball State University prioritizes broad access, with a mid-sized student body of 13,770 in Muncie, IN.

See all programs and financial aid at Ball State University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr
Psychologists, all other $117,580/yr
Industrial-organizational psychologists $109,840/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Psychology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Ball State University

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For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Psychology at Ball State University?
At 38/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Psychology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Psychology at Ball State University?
The 49% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →