Sociology at American International College

At $33,750 in debt—placing this program in the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of sociology programs nationwide leave graduates with less debt—American International College presents a challenging financial picture. Based on comparable sociology programs across Massachusetts, first-year earnings around $37,500 suggest a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.90, which means graduates carry nearly a full year's salary in loans. For context, the typical Massachusetts sociology bachelor's program produces $27,000 in debt, about $6,750 less.

The earnings estimate itself isn't alarming—it tracks closely with both the state and national median for sociology degrees. Programs at Boston College and Northeastern do reach $48,000 and $42,000 respectively, but American International serves a different population: half its students qualify for Pell grants, and the 97% admission rate indicates it's providing access to students who might not have other options. The question is whether those students can manage the above-average debt burden on typical sociology salaries.

The practical concern here is the debt level, not the career path. If your child can graduate with significantly less borrowing—through scholarships, family support, or working through school—this becomes more manageable. But at the full $33,750, they'd be starting their career with a heavier financial weight than most sociology graduates, and that matters when entry salaries cluster around $37,000 regardless of which Massachusetts school you attend.