Sociology Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of human social relationships, institutions, and societal structures.
Starting Salary
$40K
median
Mid-Career
$60K
salary
ROI Payback
6.5 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
4.5%
rate
Sociology Overview
Study of human social relationships, institutions, and societal structures.
Category
Social Sciences
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
60%
Enrollment Trend
declining
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
38%
Lifetime Premium
$250K
Female Graduates
65%
Sociology Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$15,750
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$15,750
after scholarships
ROI Payback
3 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$234,250
Lifetime earnings premium ($250,000) minus net degree cost ($15,750)
Sociology Salary Progression
Common Sociology Careers
Social Researcher
Policy Analyst
Community Organizer
HR Specialist
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Sociology
#1
Harvard
#2
UC Berkeley
#3
University of Wisconsin
#4
University of Michigan
#5
Columbia
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Sociology Degree FAQ
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