Sociology at University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
36 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
37
Optimistic
36
Base Case
35
Pessimistic
Earnings $31,686/yr (-8% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 7.9x earnings multiple (3.5x out-of-state)
Ranked #255 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 $551K $546K $505K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 7.9x 7.9x 7.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.5x 3.5x 3.2x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 37 36 35

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$69,428
Out-of-state: $157,172 (3.5x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$94,764
-36% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,500
8.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$53,702
69% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $31,686/yr, Sociology graduates from University of Massachusetts-Amherst land near the $34,392 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

A 7.9x earnings multiple over ten years puts this program in solid financial territory. Tuition is well-justified by projected earnings.

The 8% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Sociology career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $21,500 against $31,686/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #255 ranking among 414 Sociology programs places University of Massachusetts-Amherst in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $31,686-to-$53,702 earnings arc over five years reflects a 69% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About University of Massachusetts-Amherst

University of Massachusetts-Amherst accepts 58% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, with 23,694 students enrolled in Amherst, MA.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Massachusetts-Amherst →

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 University of Massachusetts-Amherst

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 36/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at University of Massachusetts-Amherst?
At 36/100, 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 University of Massachusetts-Amherst?
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 →