Sociology at DePaul University

DePaul's sociology program starts graduates at below-average earnings but demonstrates something more important: unusually strong growth trajectory. That $33,644 first-year salary sits below both the national median ($34,102) and Illinois median ($34,769), placing it in the 40th percentile among Illinois sociology programs. However, four years out, earnings jump to $50,794—a 51% increase that significantly outpaces typical social science career progressions. The debt load of $24,500 remains manageable, creating a first-year ratio of 0.73 that improves dramatically as earnings climb.

The real question is what drives that earnings acceleration. DePaul's Chicago location likely plays a role—urban networks and opportunities can help sociology graduates transition into higher-paying corporate or non-profit roles. But those first couple of years will be lean compared to peers at Chicago State ($42,687 starting) or even McKendree ($40,015). Your child would need to accept a financially tight entry period with the understanding that the payoff appears later.

For families comfortable with delayed returns, this represents a reasonable investment. The debt isn't excessive, and the four-year earnings suggest graduates find solid professional footing. However, if your child needs immediate post-graduation income—perhaps to help with household expenses or start repayment aggressively—programs with stronger starting salaries would reduce early financial strain.