Sociology at Southern Utah University

Based on comparable sociology programs in Utah, this degree suggests a starting salary around $35,400—right at the state median but unremarkable nationally. What's more concerning is the estimated $25,000 in debt, which substantially exceeds Utah's typical $15,000 for this major. That 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly 8-9 months of their first-year salary, making early financial progress slower than it could be at in-state alternatives.

The four-year earnings figure of $33,477 actually dips below first-year estimates, which is unusual and worth questioning. Sociology degrees don't always lead to linear income growth, particularly if graduates take nonprofit or public sector positions, but a backward slide suggests either career path challenges or data quirks. Either way, it doesn't paint an optimistic picture of rapid salary advancement.

For parents weighing this investment, the core issue is debt load. If your student can graduate with significantly less than $25,000—through scholarships, work, or family support—this becomes more defensible as a foundation for graduate school or career exploration. But at full estimated debt, you're paying a premium compared to other Utah sociology programs without clear evidence of better outcomes.