Sociology at Chapman University

Chapman University's sociology program graduates enter an earnings trajectory that looks stronger than national numbers suggest but tells a more nuanced story within California's competitive market. With first-year earnings of $39,278, graduates outperform 87% of sociology programs nationwide. However, in a state where top programs can command $50,000+ starting salaries, Chapman lands solidly middle-of-the-pack at the 60th percentile among California sociology degrees.

The financial picture is relatively manageable: $20,500 in median debt translates to a 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe about half their first year's salary. By year four, earnings climb to $46,686—a respectable 19% increase that narrows the gap with higher-performing programs. This four-year number approaches what National University and Ashford graduates earn immediately, though it still trails elite institutions like Santa Clara by nearly $7,000.

The caveat here matters: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary considerably. For parents weighing Chapman against UC Berkeley (which costs less for in-state students and shows similar early earnings), the decision hinges on whether Chapman's smaller classes and private school environment justify the premium. This program won't match the earning power of the state's top sociology degrees, but it delivers solid middle-tier outcomes for students who thrive in Chapman's setting.