Sociology at Johnson & Wales University-Online

With estimated first-year earnings around $36,700 and debt near $26,000, this online sociology program lands squarely in the middle of what's typical for the field. Similar bachelor's programs in Rhode Island produce graduates earning in this same range, while the debt burden sits slightly above the state median but matches the national baseline for sociology degrees. The 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio means roughly nine months of gross income would cover the full loan amount—manageable, though not particularly advantageous.

The challenge here is that sociology bachelor's degrees rarely translate into high immediate earnings anywhere. The national median of $34,100 reflects a field where many graduates need additional credentials or years of experience to see substantial income growth. Johnson & Wales' online format may offer flexibility for students who need to work while studying, potentially reducing opportunity costs, but the estimated outcomes suggest this path won't fast-track anyone to financial security in year one.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is what comes after graduation. If your child has a clear plan for graduate school or a specific career path where sociology serves as foundation (social work, human resources, research), this could work. If the degree is exploratory or the career plan is vague, spending $26,000 for sub-$37,000 earnings deserves serious reconsideration—especially when these figures are based on peer programs rather than this school's actual track record.