Sociology at Lander University

Greenwood, SC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
33 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
33
Optimistic
33
Base Case
32
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,243/yr (-9% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 10.2x earnings multiple (5.6x out-of-state)
Ranked #313 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 $476K $478K $451K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.2x 10.2x 9.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.6x 5.6x 5.3x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 33 33 32

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$46,800
Out-of-state: $85,200 (5.6x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$58,004
-24% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$27,000
10.4 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,898
37% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $31,243/yr, Sociology graduates from Lander University land near the $34,392 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

With a 10.2x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 5% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $27,000 against $31,243/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #313 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places Lander University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 37% earnings increase from $31,243 to $42,898 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Lander University

Lander University accepts 68% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, a compact campus enrolling 3,384 students in Greenwood, SC.

See all programs and financial aid at Lander 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 Lander University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 33/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Lander University?
At 33/100, 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 Lander 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →