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Sociology at Bowie State University

Bowie, MD · Public · Bachelor's Degree

DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition

Optimistic

Base Case

Pessimistic

Earnings $38,893/yr (13% vs median)

AI Risk High (42% exposed)

Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)

ROI 13.5x earnings multiple (6.1x out-of-state)

Ranked #98 of 414 Sociology programs Top 25%

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

	Optimistic No Disruption	Base Case Gradual AI	Pessimistic Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings	$486K	$487K	$458K
Earnings Multiple (In-State)	13.5x	13.5x	12.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State)	6.1x	6.1x	5.8x
Probability of Field Employment	48%	44%	34%
DegreeOutlook Score	46	45	42

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)

$35,996

Out-of-state: $79,556 (6.1x ROI)

4-Year Net Price (After Aid)

$77,340

-115% less than sticker · See by income

Median Debt at Graduation

$22,578

7.0 months of Year 1 earnings

Reported Earnings (5 Year)

$46,473

19% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $38,893 at Bowie State University come in 13% above the national median of $34,392 for Sociology programs.

With a 13.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 6% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $22,578 against $38,893/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

Bowie State University ranks #98 among 414 Sociology programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

The limited growth from $38,893 to $46,473 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.

About Bowie State University

Bowie State University accepts 84% of applicants — an open-access institution by design, serving 5,207 students in Bowie, MD. Pell Grant recipients make up 44% of the student body — a marker of economic diversity.

See all programs and financial aid at Bowie State University →

Top Career Paths

Managers, all other $136,550/yr

Sociologists $101,690/yr

Sociology teachers, postsecondary $82,540/yr

View all 5 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Sociology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Bowie State 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 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Bowie State University?

At 45/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Sociology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.

Should I worry about AI if I study Sociology at Bowie State University?

The 42% 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 Bowie State University one of the best schools for Sociology?

Among 414 Sociology programs, Bowie State University's #98 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 →