Program Analysis
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville's Sociology program produces graduates earning $35,415/yr — within striking distance of the $34,392 national average for this field.
Every dollar of in-state tuition returns an estimated 10.6x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Sociology programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Sociology's typical career paths, with 42% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 9% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $25,000 represents roughly 8 months of the $35,415 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
At #109 of 414 Sociology programs, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.
Five-year earnings of $55,821 show a 58% jump from the $35,415 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration.