Analysis
A $27,000 debt load for first-year earnings around $37,500 represents a workable starting point, though peer programs nationally suggest this bachelor's degree leads to modest initial compensation. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 falls within reasonable bounds—graduates would owe roughly three-quarters of their first-year salary, which is manageable if earnings grow steadily. However, social sciences degrees are notoriously broad, and outcomes depend heavily on the specific career path students pursue after graduation.
The challenge with Trinity International's program is that we're working entirely with estimates derived from national patterns, not actual outcomes for this school's graduates. The small graduate sample that triggered data suppression could mean the program is newly developed, serves a specialized niche, or simply enrolls few students. Without knowing which factors are at play, it's difficult to assess whether Trinity's religious university environment and Deerfield location provide meaningful advantages in connecting graduates to Chicago-area opportunities.
For families considering this program, the estimated numbers suggest financial viability but not a clear value advantage. The 93% admission rate and modest debt load make this an accessible option, but you'll want direct conversations with the program about where recent graduates have actually landed—internship pipelines, alumni networks, and career support matter enormously for social sciences majors competing in a crowded field.
Where Trinity International University-Illinois Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all social sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Social Sciences bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,320 | $37,459* | — | $26,975* | — | |
| $40,890 | $61,612* | — | $47,010* | 0.76 | |
| $63,946 | $61,389* | $80,320 | $11,000* | 0.18 | |
| $12,643 | $57,538* | $79,100 | $20,559* | 0.36 | |
| $59,076 | $56,540* | $72,825 | $19,937* | 0.35 | |
| $19,000 | $56,221* | $42,471 | $25,805* | 0.46 | |
| National Median | — | $37,459* | — | $25,500* | 0.68 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with social sciences graduates
Statisticians
Biostatisticians
Sociologists
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other
Secondary School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Survey Researchers
Middle School Teachers, Except Special and Career/Technical Education
Elementary School Teachers, Except Special Education
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
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 Trinity International University-Illinois, approximately 33% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 76 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.