Sociology at University of Maryland-College Park

UMD's sociology program delivers national-average starting salaries but demonstrates impressive earnings momentum. That $34,150 first-year figure—exactly matching Maryland's median—jumps 56% to $53,258 by year four, suggesting graduates successfully pivot into career tracks that value their research and analytical skills. Among Maryland sociology programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining relatively manageable debt at $20,460 (well below both state and national medians).

The tradeoff here is clear: you're not getting the immediate $40,000+ salaries that several Maryland competitors deliver, but the strong mid-career trajectory suggests UMD graduates are finding pathways into government, research, or corporate roles that reward experience. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.60 is workable—borrowers could reasonably pay this down within three years if they prioritize it—and that figure only improves as earnings grow.

The real question is whether your student can navigate that first year on $34,000, likely in the expensive DC-Baltimore corridor. If they can weather the entry-level phase through family support, multiple roommates, or supplemental income, the earnings growth pattern indicates this degree opens doors. Just know that other Maryland sociology programs offer $6,000-8,000 higher starting points if immediate earnings matter more than the flagship name.