Sociology at University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
29 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
29
Optimistic
29
Base Case
28
Pessimistic
Earnings $18,869/yr (-45% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 16.2x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #367 of 414 Sociology programs

Program Analysis

The earnings trajectory for UNC Asheville Sociology graduates reflects the regional labor market and the nature of this versatile liberal arts degree. Asheville's economy, while growing, leans heavily into non-profits, social services, and local government, where entry-level roles for sociology majors typically don't command the highest starting salaries. Many graduates find meaningful work in community organizations or social advocacy, roles that offer intrinsic rewards but often require further education or significant experience to reach higher earning tiers. The listed career paths with greater income potential often necessitate a master's or PhD, which is a common progression for sociology graduates nationally. To boost your earning potential, actively pursue internships that apply your research and analytical skills in data-driven or business-focused environments, or consider a complementary minor in a field like data analytics or business administration.

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 $483K $484K $456K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 16.2x 16.2x 15.3x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.9x 4.9x 4.6x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 29 29 28

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$29,844
Out-of-state: $99,236 (4.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,460
-72% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$20,585
13.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$38,232
103% growth from Year 1

About University of North Carolina Asheville

With 94% of applicants admitted, University of North Carolina Asheville prioritizes broad access, with a smaller student body of 2,790 in Asheville, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at University of North Carolina Asheville →

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 North Carolina Asheville

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 29/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at University of North Carolina Asheville?
At 29/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Sociology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
What's the payoff timeline for a Sociology degree from University of North Carolina Asheville?
At $20,585 in median debt, graduates carry 13 months of starting salary in loans. Income-driven repayment plans may be relevant for many borrowers.
Should I worry about AI if I study Sociology at University of North Carolina Asheville?
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.
Is University of North Carolina Asheville a good choice for Sociology despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If University of North Carolina Asheville's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →