Sociology at Duquesne University

Duquesne's sociology program shows middling outcomes within Pennsylvania but concerning national performance, though the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these numbers could swing considerably with just a few data points. Starting at $29,661, graduates earn roughly $4,000 less than the Pennsylvania median for sociology majors and land in just the 18th percentile nationally. While the program sits at the 40th percentile in Pennsylvania, that's modest consolation when top programs in the state like King's College produce graduates earning $48,529—63% more right out of the gate.

The silver lining is notable earnings growth: graduates see a 56% bump by year four, reaching $46,134. That's strong trajectory and suggests the degree opens doors over time rather than immediately. At $26,983, the debt load roughly mirrors state and national averages, and the first-year debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.91 isn't catastrophic. Still, that initial salary means tighter budgets early on.

For families considering this program, the weak initial placement combined with the small sample size should spark serious questions. Are most graduates staying in the Pittsburgh area where sociology salaries may lag? Is career services connecting students to stronger opportunities? Without more data on where these graduates land and why earnings start so low, it's hard to justify choosing Duquesne over stronger-performing Pennsylvania alternatives unless other factors—campus fit, scholarships, specific faculty—tip the scales decisively.