Median Earnings (1yr)
$35,981
65th percentile (60th in WI)
Median Debt
$26,000
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.72
Manageable
Sample Size
18
Limited data

Analysis

Saint Norbert's sociology program sits squarely in the middle of Wisconsin's offerings, matching the state median for earnings at nearly $36,000 while carrying virtually the same debt load as peer programs. At the 60th percentile statewide, it trails UW-Stevens Point and several UW system schools by a few thousand dollars annually, but beats roughly half the state's sociology programs—a solid, if unremarkable, position given the college's 92% admission rate and accessible price point.

The 27% earnings bump from year one to year four suggests graduates are finding professional traction, with fourth-year earnings reaching nearly $46,000. The $26,000 debt burden translates to monthly payments around $290 on a standard plan, which should be manageable on these income levels. However, it's worth noting the sample size here is small—fewer than 30 graduates—so individual outcomes could vary significantly from these medians.

For families considering Saint Norbert's sociology program, you're looking at a middle-of-the-pack investment within Wisconsin. The debt load is reasonable and the earnings trajectory moves in the right direction, but this isn't a program that will dramatically outperform state alternatives. If your student values Saint Norbert's small liberal arts environment and has realistic expectations about sociology career paths, the financial fundamentals work—just don't expect standout returns compared to larger public universities that may cost less upfront.

Where Saint Norbert College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all sociology bachelors's programs nationally

Saint Norbert CollegeOther sociology programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Saint Norbert College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Saint Norbert College graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 65th percentile of all sociology bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin

Sociology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (21 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Saint Norbert College$35,981$45,831$26,0000.72
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point$37,888$43,997$25,9680.69
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee$36,452$43,554$26,0000.71
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater$36,411$43,215$26,2500.72
Beloit College$36,222—$27,0000.75
University of Wisconsin-Madison$35,889$52,892$17,8020.50
National Median$34,102—$25,0000.73

Other Sociology Programs in Wisconsin

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Wisconsin schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point
$8,834$37,888$25,968
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee
$10,020$36,452$26,000
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater
$8,250$36,411$26,250
Beloit College
Beloit
$58,554$36,222$27,000
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison
$11,205$35,889$17,802

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Saint Norbert College, approximately 14% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 18 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.