Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $56,899/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$22,899/yr |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $20,000 |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology. | Master | $46,833 | $82,748 |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Master | $28,236 | $108,000 |
Analysis
The Chicago School at San Diego delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median 10-year earnings of $56,899 and relatively low debt of $20,000 for the median graduate, the overall numbers look reasonable until you examine the individual programs.
The school's psychology and mental health programs carry devastating debt loads that far exceed earning potential. Clinical psychology graduates earn $46,833 annually while carrying $82,748 in debt, creating a debt-to-income ratio that will strain your budget for decades. Mental health services majors face an even worse scenario with $28,236 in annual earnings against $108,000 in debt.
These debt-to-income ratios signal serious repayment challenges. Your monthly loan payments will consume a dangerous portion of your take-home pay, limiting your ability to build wealth or handle emergencies. The psychology field's traditionally modest salaries cannot support the debt levels this school generates.
You should consider this school only if you have substantial family financial support or plan to pursue doctoral-level training that significantly increases earning potential. The 50% financial aid rate suggests merit scholarships may be available, but even substantial aid may not overcome the fundamental mismatch between program costs and career earnings.
Look elsewhere if you need your degree to pay for itself within a reasonable timeframe. Other schools offer similar psychology programs with better debt-to-earnings ratios. The San Diego job market, while strong, cannot compensate for the financial burden these programs create.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Chicago School at San Diego worth the cost for psychology students?
The Chicago School at San Diego shows mixed ROI results, with 10-year median earnings of $56,899 but significant variation by program. Clinical psychology graduates earn around $46,833 while mental health services graduates average just $28,236, which may not justify the full program cost.
What is the job market like for The Chicago School at San Diego graduates?
Psychology and mental health fields typically offer stable employment but lower starting salaries. The school's 100% acceptance rate suggests less selective admission standards, which can impact graduate competitiveness in the job market.
How much debt do students typically have after The Chicago School at San Diego?
The median debt is $20,000, which is relatively manageable compared to many graduate programs. However, this figure may not reflect the full cost for students completing longer doctoral programs in clinical psychology.
Which programs at The Chicago School at San Diego have the best return on investment?
Clinical psychology programs show better earning potential at $46,833 compared to mental health services at $28,236. Students should carefully consider career goals since mental health services graduates may struggle to cover program costs with their lower earning potential.