Sociology at American Public University System

American Public University System's sociology program starts strong with first-year earnings of $47,633—placing it in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile in West Virginia. These initial earnings significantly outpace both the national median ($34,102) and West Virginia median ($34,063) for sociology graduates. The debt burden of $29,278 is slightly above typical for the field but manageable given the strong initial salary, with graduates earning enough to justify the investment in year one.

The major concern here is the earnings trajectory: income drops to $42,708 by year four, a 10% decline that's unusual for college graduates who typically see steady salary growth. While these graduates still earn more than their peers at other West Virginia sociology programs even four years out, the backward movement raises questions about job stability or career progression. This pattern could reflect the types of roles graduates enter or challenges in converting their initial positions into long-term career advancement.

For families comfortable with an online university format (APUS is primarily online), this program delivers stronger initial outcomes than nearly all sociology programs in the state. However, the earnings decline means you're banking on your child using that first year strategically—either to build skills that support continued growth or to pivot into a more sustainable career path. The debt load is reasonable enough that the initial salary provides breathing room, but don't expect automatic income growth over time.