Sociology at Drew University

Madison, NJ · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
18 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
19
Optimistic
18
Base Case
17
Pessimistic
Earnings $20,658/yr (-40% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 3.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #414 of 414 Sociology programs

Program Analysis

A Sociology degree from Drew, like many liberal arts programs, cultivates invaluable critical thinking, research, and communication skills. However, these foundational strengths often don't translate directly into the higher-earning career paths listed without significant additional steps. Many roles typically associated with sociology, such as becoming a professional sociologist or a postsecondary educator, almost universally require advanced degrees, which means more time and investment beyond your bachelor's. Students often find themselves in diverse roles across non-profits, human resources, or general business administration where analytical and interpersonal skills are valued, but entry-level compensation can be modest, especially in competitive regional markets like New Jersey near NYC. The program's design, typical for a smaller liberal arts institution, may not emphasize direct recruiting pipelines into specific industries. You'll need to proactively supplement your studies with internships, vocational minors, or a clear graduate school plan to effectively bridge the gap between academic learning and early career acceleration.

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 $554K $549K $507K
Earnings Multiple 3.1x 3.0x 2.8x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 19 18 17

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$181,440
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$102,576
43% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
15.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$47,255
129% growth from Year 1

About Drew University

Drew University accepts 69% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a smaller institution with 1,510 students in Madison, NJ. Financial aid reduces the effective four-year cost to $102,576 — 43% less than the list price.

See all programs and financial aid at Drew 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 Drew 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

How does Drew University's Sociology program score?
This program scores 18/100 — on the lower end for Sociology. Prospective students should carefully weigh costs against likely earnings.
Do Drew University Sociology graduates earn enough to justify the loans?
The debt-to-income ratio of 1.3x suggests an extended repayment window. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on career trajectory, not just first-year pay.
How vulnerable is Sociology to AI automation?
AI won't 'replace' Sociology careers outright, but it is likely to reduce the number of job openings. We model 42% task exposure, which compresses field employment probability in our scenarios.
Why are Sociology earnings lower at Drew University?
Lower starting pay at Drew University may reflect local labor market conditions rather than program quality. Many graduates see convergence with national averages within 3-5 years.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →