Sociology at Ohio University-Main Campus

Ohio University's sociology program produces graduates who earn above both national and state medians right out of the gate, landing at $36,506 in year one. That places it in the 69th percentile nationally and 60th in Ohio—respectable performance, though notably trailing the state's top programs at Miami and Cincinnati by $6,000-7,000. The $25,000 median debt matches both state and national benchmarks, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.68 that's manageable for a social science degree.

The trajectory looks encouraging: earnings climb 24% to reach $45,087 by year four, suggesting graduates find their footing in the job market. This growth pattern is typical for sociology majors who often start in entry-level nonprofit or social services roles before advancing. The moderate sample size means these numbers are reasonably reliable, though individual outcomes will vary based on career path—sociology majors who pursue business, research, or government roles typically earn more than those in direct service positions.

For a family comfortable with mid-range debt and realistic about social science salaries, this represents a solid middle-ground option. Your child won't be shouldering crushing loans, and the earnings growth suggests career progression is achievable. Just understand you're choosing a degree valued more for its analytical skills than its immediate earning power—Ohio University delivers competently here, but won't transform the financial fundamentals of a sociology career.