Sociology at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · Public · Bachelor's Degree
45 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
45
Optimistic
45
Base Case
44
Pessimistic
Earnings $30,623/yr (-11% vs median)
AI Risk High (42% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (114,800 openings/yr)
ROI 16.0x earnings multiple (3.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #102 of 414 Sociology programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

The broad applicability of a Sociology degree from an institution like UNC means your career path won't be rigidly defined, which can be both an opportunity and a challenge. While the university's prestige opens many doors, initial earnings for Sociology graduates often reflect the varied fields they enter, from public service and non-profits to market research and human resources. The program's strength in critical thinking, data analysis, and understanding social dynamics is highly valued, particularly as you gain experience. However, few entry-level roles explicitly seek "sociologists," meaning you'll leverage your transferable skills in diverse settings. The evolving nature of analytical work means focusing on advanced data interpretation and human-centric problem-solving is crucial. Proactively pursuing internships and networking within your desired industries while at UNC is key to translating your robust education into a strong professional trajectory.

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 $585K $576K $528K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 16.3x 16.0x 14.7x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.7x 3.7x 3.4x
Probability of Field Employment 48% 44% 34%
DegreeOutlook Score 45 45 44

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$35,956
Out-of-state: $157,320 (3.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$51,932
-44% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$14,050
5.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,345
87% growth from Year 1

About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

A 19% acceptance rate puts University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in competitive admissions territory, serving a student body of 20,556 in Chapel Hill, NC.

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

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 at Chapel Hill

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 45/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Sociology at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?
At 45/100, 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 North Carolina at Chapel Hill?
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 at Chapel Hill one of the best schools for Sociology?
Among 414 Sociology programs, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's #102 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →