Sociology at Benedictine College

Kansas sociology programs show considerable variation in outcomes, with the state's flagship universities reporting first-year earnings above $42,000 while smaller programs cluster in the mid-to-high $30,000s. Based on peer programs across the state, Benedictine graduates can expect earnings around $38,000—solidly in the middle of Kansas sociology programs and notably above the national median of $34,000. This suggests the Kansas job market treats sociology degrees more favorably than many other states.

The estimated $26,000 debt load creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68, meaning graduates would owe roughly eight months of their first-year salary. This aligns closely with national sociology debt levels and sits slightly below what other Kansas programs typically produce. For a private Catholic college where only 16% of students receive Pell grants, this relatively modest debt figure is worth noting—many private institutions in this category leave graduates with significantly higher loan burdens.

The practical challenge is that $38,000 provides limited financial cushion, even with reasonable debt. Sociology graduates typically need graduate education or strategic career pivots to substantially increase earnings. If your child is drawn to Benedictine's faith-based environment and smaller setting, the financial picture appears workable compared to peer schools. But if they're uncertain about sociology as a career path or weighing this against Kansas State or KU—where similar programs show higher earning potential—the flagships deserve serious consideration.