Sociology at Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
44
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $37,946/yr (10% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 10.6x earnings multiple (4.0x out-of-state)
Ranked #122 of 414 Sociology programs Top 50%

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 $525K $522K $486K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.7x 10.6x 9.9x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.0x 4.0x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 44 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)
$49,048
Out-of-state: $130,648 (4.0x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$56,680
-16% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
7.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$52,363
38% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $37,946 per year, Sociology graduates from Old Dominion University earn slightly above the $34,392 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.

With a 10.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 7% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $25,000 against $37,946/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #122 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places Old Dominion University in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

A 38% earnings increase from $37,946 to $52,363 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Old Dominion University

With 91% of applicants admitted, Old Dominion University prioritizes broad access, serving 17,521 students in Norfolk, VA.

See all programs and financial aid at Old Dominion 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 Old Dominion 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 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at Old Dominion University?
At 44/100, 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 Old Dominion 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 →