Sociology at Central College

Pella, IA · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
37 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
38
Optimistic
37
Base Case
34
Pessimistic
Earnings $38,034/yr (11% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 5.9x earnings multiple
Ranked #232 of 414 Sociology programs

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 $492K $492K $462K
Earnings Multiple 5.9x 5.9x 5.5x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 38 37 34

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$83,952
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$89,412
-7% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$24,500
7.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$47,227
24% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Graduates earn $38,034/yr, edging above the $34,392 national average for Sociology — a modest premium that suggests solid regional demand.

A 5.9x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

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 $24,500 against $38,034/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #232 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places Central College in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 24% earnings increase from $38,034 to $47,227 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Central College

Central College has a 79% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, with a smaller student body of 1,062 in Pella, IA.

See all programs and financial aid at Central College →

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 Central College

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 37/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Central College?
At 37/100, 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 Central College?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →