Sociology at Fontbonne University

Borrowing an estimated $33,088 for earnings projected around $35,000 creates an uncomfortable financial picture for a sociology degree. Based on comparable programs in Missouri, first-year earnings barely exceed the debt load—a nearly 1:1 ratio that means loan payments will consume a significant portion of early paychecks. The estimated debt here runs about $8,000 above what's typical for sociology graduates both statewide and nationally, which matters when you're starting at around $35,000.

Similar Missouri programs show a range of outcomes, with some graduates earning a few thousand more annually. The difference between $35,000 and $38,000 might seem modest, but it's meaningful when managing five-figure debt. With nearly half of Fontbonne's students receiving Pell grants, many families here are already stretching financially, making that debt premium harder to absorb.

The fundamental challenge is that sociology degrees—regardless of where they're earned—typically lead to modest starting salaries while this program carries above-average borrowing. Unless your student has specific graduate school plans or secure employment lined up, the estimated debt burden relative to likely earnings suggests looking at programs with either stronger earning potential or lower borrowing requirements.