Psychology at National University

San Diego, CA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Psychology, General
48 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
49
Optimistic
48
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,523/yr (22% vs median)
AI Risk High (49% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (125,000 openings/yr)
ROI 10.4x earnings multiple
Ranked #29 of 926 Psychology, General programs Top 5%

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 $559K $554K $507K
Earnings Multiple 10.5x 10.4x 9.5x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 47% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 49 48 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$53,280
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$124,232
-133% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$28,062
8.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$56,955
48% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

National University's Psychology graduates start at $38,523/yr — above the $31,705 national average, though not by a wide margin.

With a 10.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 9% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Psychology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $28,062 against $38,523/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

National University ranks #29 among 926 Psychology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

A 48% earnings increase from $38,523 to $56,955 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About National University

with a mid-sized student body of 9,725 in San Diego, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at National 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 National University

Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 48/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Psychology at National University?
At 48/100, 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 National 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.
Is National University one of the best schools for Psychology?
Among 926 Psychology programs, National University's #29 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →