Sociology at Franklin University

Based on comparable sociology programs in Ohio, Franklin's graduates can expect first-year earnings around $36,500—squarely in line with the state median and slightly above the national average for this major. The estimated $27,500 in debt produces a manageable 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly three-quarters of their first-year salary. For context, Ohio's top sociology programs like Miami University and UC show earnings in the low-to-mid $40,000s, suggesting room exists above Franklin's trajectory but also confirming that sociology bachelor's degrees don't typically command premium starting salaries anywhere.

The practical challenge here is less about debt burden—which appears reasonable—and more about whether $36,500 provides sufficient income to service loans while covering living expenses in Columbus. A third of Franklin students receive Pell grants, indicating many come from lower-income backgrounds where every dollar of earning power matters. Similar programs across Ohio suggest this is what the sociology market pays, not an outlier specific to Franklin.

Your decision hinges on whether your child has clear post-graduation plans that leverage this degree. Sociology can open doors to social services, research, HR, and graduate programs, but the earnings reflect a field where additional credentials or strategic job targeting often prove necessary. The debt load won't be crushing, but the starting salary won't provide much cushion either.