Sociology at CUNY City College

City College's sociology program faces a difficult first year, with graduates earning just $28,825—well below both the national median ($34,102) and New York's median ($33,500) for sociology majors. What makes this particularly striking is that half of City College's student body qualifies for Pell grants, meaning many graduates are supporting themselves immediately after college. That first-year earnings figure ranks in just the 14th percentile nationally.

The program's saving grace is dramatic earnings growth: by year four, median income jumps to $47,607, a 65% increase that outpaces typical sociology trajectories. This eventually pushes graduates above both state and national benchmarks. The exceptionally low debt load of $11,000—less than half New York's typical sociology debt—means graduates aren't drowning financially during those lean early years. Still, earning under $29,000 in one of America's most expensive cities creates real hardship, even with manageable debt.

For families seeking immediate financial returns, this program falls short. But for students who can weather 1-2 years of very modest income—perhaps living at home or working multiple jobs—the combination of minimal debt and strong mid-career earnings creates a viable path forward. The question is whether your family can absorb that initial financial strain.