Sociology at Kean University

Kean University's sociology program punches above its weight in a state where this degree rarely leads to strong earnings. At $36,432 in first-year earnings, graduates here earn more than 60% of sociology majors in New Jersey—meaningful when the typical NJ sociology grad makes $33,982. The $27,000 median debt sits slightly above state and national norms, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 means graduates can realistically manage repayment, especially as earnings grow to nearly $42,000 by year four.

What's particularly notable is how Kean compares to New Jersey's flagship programs. While TCNJ's sociology grads earn significantly more ($46,953), Kean outperforms both Rutgers branches and William Paterson despite serving a student body where 46% receive Pell grants. This suggests the program delivers solid career preparation for students who might not have access to more selective options. The earnings trajectory shows steady growth rather than stagnation, which matters in a field where many graduates struggle to find stable footing.

For an anxious parent, the question comes down to career direction. If your child has a clear path using sociology as a foundation—whether in social services, human resources, or nonprofit work—these numbers indicate they'll earn enough to justify the investment. The moderate sample size adds some uncertainty, but the consistent performance across metrics suggests this reflects real program outcomes rather than statistical noise.