Median Earnings (1yr)
$37,389
76th percentile (40th in CO)
Median Debt
$23,000
8% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.62
Manageable
Sample Size
79
Adequate data

Analysis

Colorado State University Pueblo's sociology program punches above its weight nationally but sits in the middle of Colorado's pack—a pattern that matters more than the rankings suggest. Graduates earn $37,389 initially, climbing to $47,208 within four years. That 26% earnings growth outpaces most sociology programs and lands the program in the 76th percentile nationally. However, among Colorado's 14 sociology programs, it ranks at the 40th percentile, trailing competitors like Adams State ($46,948) and Western Colorado ($43,178).

The financial fundamentals work in students' favor. With $23,000 in median debt—matching Colorado's state median and below the national average—graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62. First-year earnings cover the debt burden comfortably, and by year four, graduates are earning more than twice their debt load. The program's open admissions and modest average SAT scores (1005) suggest accessibility rather than selectivity, yet outcomes remain competitive.

For Colorado families, this represents solid but not exceptional value. If you're comparing in-state options and location flexibility matters, stronger-earning programs exist elsewhere in Colorado. But if Pueblo's location works for your family and your student needs an accessible entry point, the combination of reasonable debt and steady earnings growth makes this a defensible choice—just recognize you're trading geographic convenience for somewhat lower earnings potential compared to other state options.

Where Colorado State University Pueblo Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all sociology bachelors's programs nationally

Colorado State University PuebloOther sociology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Colorado State University Pueblo graduates compare to all programs nationally

Colorado State University Pueblo graduates earn $37k, placing them in the 76th percentile of all sociology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado

Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (14 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Colorado State University Pueblo$37,389$47,208$23,0000.62
Adams State University$46,948—$29,4410.63
Western Colorado University$43,178$37,385——
Metropolitan State University of Denver$42,022$52,565$26,0000.62
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus$40,011$49,161$31,0000.77
University of Colorado Boulder$37,958$51,246$17,8190.47
National Median$34,102—$25,0000.73

Other Sociology Programs in Colorado

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Adams State University
Alamosa
$9,776$46,948$29,441
Western Colorado University
Gunnison
$11,083$43,178—
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Denver
$10,780$42,022$26,000
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver
$10,017$40,011$31,000
University of Colorado Boulder
Boulder
$16,430$37,958$17,819

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Colorado State University Pueblo, approximately 28% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 79 graduates with reported earnings and 91 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.