Psychology at Washburn University

Topeka, KS · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Psychology, General
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
41
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,264/yr (21% vs median)
AI Risk High (49% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (125,000 openings/yr)
ROI 12.4x earnings multiple (5.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #112 of 926 Psychology, General programs Top 25%

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 $473K $475K $450K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 12.3x 12.4x 11.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.7x 5.8x 5.5x
Probability of Field Employment 51% 47% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 41

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$38,312
Out-of-state: $82,328 (5.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$52,184
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,075
7.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$44,367
16% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $38,264 at Washburn University come in 21% above the national median of $31,705 for Psychology programs.

With a 12.4x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Psychology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $24,075 against $38,264/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Washburn University ranks #112 among 926 Psychology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $38,264 to $44,367 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Washburn University

with a smaller student body of 4,093 in Topeka, KS.

See all programs and financial aid at Washburn 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 Washburn 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 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Psychology at Washburn University?
At 44/100, 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 Washburn 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 Washburn University one of the best schools for Psychology?
Among 926 Psychology programs, Washburn University's #112 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 →