Sociology at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree
44 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
44
Optimistic
44
Base Case
42
Pessimistic
Earnings $33,832/yr (-2% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 9.0x earnings multiple (2.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #111 of 414 Sociology programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

A Sociology degree from an institution as respected as the University of Michigan provides an exceptional foundation in critical thinking, research methods, and understanding complex social dynamics. While initial earnings may not match highly specialized vocational degrees, this program equips you with versatile analytical skills highly valued across diverse sectors. Graduates often leverage U-M's strong alumni network and academic rigor to enter fields like human resources, market research, non-profit management, or public policy analysis, particularly in Michigan's corporate and government sectors. Many also pursue graduate studies in law, social work, or directly into academia, which are pathways to the higher-earning roles you see listed. Given the high AI risk associated with many analytical roles, focusing on developing uniquely human skills – empathy, ethical reasoning, and complex social problem-solving – is paramount. Actively seek internships and experiential learning opportunities that bridge your sociological insights with practical workplace applications.

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 $632K $619K $562K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 9.2x 9.0x 8.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 2.7x 2.7x 2.4x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 44 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)
$68,912
Out-of-state: $232,288 (2.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$59,328
14% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$18,419
6.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$64,923
92% growth from Year 1

About University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

A 18% acceptance rate puts University of Michigan-Ann Arbor in competitive admissions territory, with 33,488 students enrolled in Ann Arbor, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor →

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 Michigan-Ann Arbor

Consider the Trade Route?

Trade programs often mean less time in school, lower student debt, and hands-on career paths that tend to be more resilient to AI disruption.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 44/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
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 University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
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 →