Sociology at University of Delaware

University of Delaware's sociology program starts slowly but transforms into something surprisingly valuable. That $29,714 first-year salary ranks in just the 19th percentile nationally—well below the $34,102 national median—but four years later, graduates earn $54,885. That's an 85% jump, suggesting many alumni either pursue graduate credentials or build skills that command higher wages over time.

The debt picture is manageable: $24,661 represents less than a year's starting salary, and with only two sociology programs in Delaware, this one ranks in the 60th percentile statewide. The real question is whether your family can weather that difficult first year financially. Many sociology graduates use entry-level positions as stepping stones—whether into graduate school, nonprofit management, or corporate roles that value research and communication skills.

This program makes the most sense if your child has a clear plan for leveraging the degree. The earnings trajectory is genuinely promising, but they'll need either family support or careful budgeting to navigate those early years. If they're considering graduate school in social work, law, or related fields, the strong foundation at a flagship state university could be worth the slow start.