Social Sciences at Tidewater Community College

Tidewater Community College's Social Sciences associate's stands out in Virginia's community college landscape, ranking 60th percentile statewide with first-year earnings of $29,425—nearly $6,000 above the state median. While these numbers might seem modest in absolute terms, they're competitive nationally (72nd percentile) and come with manageable debt of $11,000, well below typical student loan burdens. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 means graduates owe roughly four months' salary, a reasonable starting point for an associate's degree.

What makes this particularly noteworthy is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 11% income growth by year four, reaching $32,649. Among Virginia's five community colleges offering this program, only Virginia Peninsula posts higher earnings. The combination of above-average starting pay and steady growth suggests graduates are finding decent employment opportunities in the Norfolk area, likely leveraging the region's diverse economy.

For families weighing community college options in Virginia, Tidewater offers solid value—especially for students planning to transfer to a four-year program or enter the workforce in social services, education support, or related fields. The relatively low debt burden keeps options open without creating financial pressure to settle for any job immediately after graduation.