Social Sciences at Union College

Union College commands selective admissions and high SAT scores, yet similar social sciences programs in New York suggest first-year earnings around $35,600—below the national median and substantially trailing peer programs at NYU ($49,000) and Manhattan University ($41,000). The estimated debt of nearly $27,000 creates a 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio that's workable but not impressive, requiring roughly 75% of first-year income to cover borrowing if following standard repayment schedules.

The real concern is what you're getting for the investment. Union's 13% Pell grant rate and 1410 average SAT indicate a well-resourced, academically strong student body, yet comparable programs in the state produce earnings that barely meet New York's median. Social sciences at selective private colleges often rely heavily on students leveraging institutional prestige and alumni networks to break into competitive fields—if your child isn't planning graduate school or doesn't have clear career direction, the outcomes may disappoint relative to the college's overall reputation.

Before committing, understand that these figures come from peer institutions since Union's graduate cohort was too small to report. If your child is drawn to social sciences here, they should have a concrete plan for translating a liberal arts degree into employment—whether that's graduate school, specific internships, or targeted career services support—because the typical trajectory doesn't appear to justify premium tuition on earnings alone.